CLASSES

BOXED WARNING

Like all opioid analgesics, oxymorphone use is associated with a significant potential for overdose or poisoning; proper patient selection and counseling is recommended. The extended-release formulation is not intended for use in the management of pain following surgery, acute pain, or on an as-needed basis; it is intended only for patients requiring continuous, around-the-clock opioid analgesia for an extended period of time and requires an experienced clinician who is knowledgeable in the use of long-acting opioids for the management of chronic pain. Further, the misuse of oxymorphone tablets by crushing, chewing, snorting, or injecting the dissolved product poses a significant risk to the abuser and may result in overdose and death. Oxymorphone should be kept out of reach of pediatric patients, others for whom the drug was not prescribed, and pets as accidental exposure or improper use may cause respiratory failure and a fatal overdose. Consumption with ethanol will result in additive CNS depression, and use with extended-release tablets will result in increased drug exposure that may cause a fatal overdose. Co-ingestion of oxymorphone extended-release and alcohol or other CNS depressants may result in hypotension, oversedation, respiratory depression, coma, and death. Advise patients to avoid ethanol ingestion and intoxication, including the ingestion of alcohol contained in prescription or non-prescription medications, during therapy. Patients with alcoholism should be advised of this serious risk, or an alternative medication used. Oxymorphone is an opioid agonist and therefore has abuse potential and risk of fatal overdose from respiratory failure. Addiction may occur in patients who obtain oxymorphone illicitly or in those appropriately prescribed the drug. The risk of addiction in any individual is unknown. However, patients with mental illness (e.g., major depression) or a family history of substance abuse (including alcoholism) have an increased risk of opioid abuse. Assess patients for risks of addiction, abuse, or misuse before drug initiation, and monitor patients who receive opioids routinely for development of these behaviors or conditions. A potential risk of abuse should not preclude appropriate pain management in any patient, but requires more intensive counseling and monitoring. Abuse and addiction are separate and distinct from physical dependence and tolerance; patients with addiction may not exhibit tolerance and symptoms of physical dependence. To discourage abuse, the smallest appropriate quantity of oxymorphone should be prescribed, and proper disposal instructions for unused drug should be given to patients.

As with other opioid agonists, oxymorphone should be avoided in patients with severe pulmonary disease. Additionally, avoid coadministration with other CNS depressants unless no other alternatives are available, as coadministration significantly increases the risk for respiratory depression, low blood pressure, and death. Oxymorphone injection and immediate-release tablets are contraindicated for use in patients with respiratory depression except in monitored settings and in the presence of resuscitative equipment , while the extended-release tablet formulation is contraindicated in patients with significant respiratory depression. Because even moderate doses of oxymorphone may result in a critical decrease in pulmonary function, use of all forms of oxymorphone are also contraindicated in patients with acute or severe asthma (e.g., status asthmaticus) and in those with hypercapnia, whether from pulmonary disease, respiratory insufficiency, or other cause. In patients with pulmonary disease such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), cor pulmonale, decreased respiratory reserve, hypoxemia, hypercapnia, respiratory insufficiency, upper airway obstruction, or preexisting respiratory depression, it is recommended that non-opioid analgesics be considered as alternatives to oxymorphone, as even usual therapeutic doses may decrease respiratory drive and cause apnea in these patient populations. Extreme caution should also be used in patients with chronic asthma, kyphoscoliosis (a type of scoliosis), or paralysis of the phrenic nerve. Oxymorphone should be used with extreme caution during impaired consciousness, as significant decreases in respiratory drive may lead to adverse intracranial effects from carbon dioxide retention; use of oxymorphone extended-release tablets is not recommended in these patients. Patients with advanced age, debilitation, or sleep apnea are at an increased risk for the development of respiratory depression associated with oxymorphone. Use with caution in patients with obesity as this is a risk factor for obstructive sleep-apnea syndrome and/or decreased respiratory reserve. Respiratory depression, if left untreated, may cause respiratory arrest and death. Symptoms of respiratory depression include a reduced urge to breathe, a decreased respiratory rate, or deep breaths separated by long pauses (a "sighing" breathing pattern). Carbon dioxide retention from respiratory depression may also worsen opioid sedating effects. Only healthcare professionals who are knowledgeable of the use of potent opioids for the management of chronic pain should prescribe oxymorphone extended-release tablets. The extended-release tablets should be reserved for patients in whom alternative treatment options (e.g., non-opioid analgesics or immediate-release opioids) are ineffective, not tolerated, or would be otherwise inadequate to provide sufficient management of pain. Do not use extended-release tablets as a "prn" or "as needed" analgesic, for acute pain, or if the pain is mild or not expected to persist for an extended period of time. Proper dosing and titration are essential; patients should be monitored for respiratory depression, particularly after therapy initiation or after a dose increase. Caution should be exercised when converting from a different opioid to oxymorphone, as initial dose overestimation may lead to fatal overdose. If treatment of respiratory depression in an individual physically dependent on opioids is necessary, administer the opioid antagonist with extreme care; titrate the antagonist dose by using smaller than usual doses. A high level of vigilant monitoring is recommended and supportive care should be given as needed. Injectable oxymorphone is contraindicated in patients with upper airway obstruction and in the treatment of patients with pulmonary edema secondary to a chemical respiratory irritant. Opioid analgesics cause pooling of blood in the extremities by decreasing peripheral vascular resistance. This effect results in decreases in venous return, cardiac work, and pulmonary venous pressure, and blood is shifted from the central to peripheral circulation, which would not be beneficial in the treatment of pulmonary edema.

Oxymorphone is classified as FDA pregnancy category C. No adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women have been conducted. As with other analgesics, the use of oxymorphone in pregnancy or in women of child-bearing potential requires that the possible benefits of the drug be weighed against the possible hazards to the mother and the child. Oral oxymorphone is not recommended for use in women during and immediately prior to labor, as use of shorter acting analgesics or other analgesic techniques are more appropriate. While oxymorphone has been used in the obstetric setting, caution is advised under various circumstances during labor and obstetric delivery. Sinusoidal fetal heart rate patterns may occur with the use of opioid analgesics. If used during the second stage of labor, the duration of labor can be prolonged by temporarily reducing the strength, duration, and frequency of uterine contractions. However, this effect is not consistent and may be offset by an increased rate of cervical dilation. Generally, the effect of opioids on the pregnant uterus appears to depend on the time of administration. Administration of the drugs during the latent phase of the first stage of labor or before cervical dilation of 4—5 cm may hamper the progress of labor. The risk of respiratory and CNS depression is especially important for premature infants who are particularly sensitive. A specific opioid antagonist, such as naloxone, should be available for reversal of opioid-induced respiratory depression in the neonate. Further, the prolonged maternal use of long-acting opioids, such as oxymorphone, during pregnancy may result in neonatal opioid withdrawal syndrome (NOWS). This syndrome can be life-threatening. Severe symptoms may require pharmacologic therapy managed by clinicians familiar with neonatal opioid withdrawal. Monitor the neonate for withdrawal symptoms including irritability, hyperactivity, abnormal sleep pattern, high-pitched crying, tremor, vomiting, diarrhea, and failure to gain weight. Onset, duration, and severity of opioid withdrawal may vary based on the specific opioid used, duration of use, timing and amount of last maternal use, and rate of elimination by the newborn. The effect of oxymorphone, if any, on the later growth, development, and functional maturation of the child is unknown.

DEA CLASS

Rx, schedule II

DESCRIPTION

Semi-synthetic opiate agonistUsed for the relief of moderate to severe acute and chronic painAvailable in multiple formulations

Oral dosage for conversion from other opioid analgesics or parenteral oxymorphone (immediate-release tablets)

Adults

When converting from other opioid analgesics, convert to a total daily dose of oral oxymorphone. In general, it is safest to start oxymorphone by administering half of the calculated total daily dose of oxymorphone in 4 or 6 equally divided doses of immediate-release tablets every 4—6 hours. If a patient has been taking parenteral oxymorphone, multiply the IV dose by 10 and administer in 4 or 6 equally divided doses. For example, if a patient was taking oxymorphone 4 mg IM daily, the corresponding oral oxymorphone dose is 40 mg PO daily, administered as 10 mg PO every 6 hours. Titrate dose to adequate pain relief.

Intramuscular, Intravenous, and Subcutaneous dosage

Adults

1—1.5 mg IM or subcutaneously every 4—6 hours as needed. Or, initially, 0.5 mg IV. If a patient has been taking oral oxymorphone, divide the total daily oral dose by 10 and administer the injectable in 4 or 6 equally divided doses. For example, if a patient was taking oxymorphone 40 mg PO daily, the corresponding IM oxymorphone dose is 4 mg IM daily, administered as 1 mg IM every 6 hours. For geriatric patients, start at low end of dosing range. Doses may be cautiously increased, as needed.

For the management of chronic severe pain in patients who require daily, around-the-clock, long-term opioid treatment. NOTE: Extended-release oxymorphone should be reserved for patients in whom alternative treatment options (e.g., nonopioid analgesics or immediate-release opioids) are ineffective, not tolerated, or would otherwise provide inadequate pain management. Discontinue all other around-the-clock opioid drugs upon initiation of oxymorphone extended-release tablets.NOTE: The use of initial doses higher than 5 mg PO every 12 hours should be reserved for opioid-tolerant patients. Opioid-tolerant patients are defined as those taking, for a minimum of 1 week, 60 mg or more oral morphine daily, 30 mg or more oral oxycodone daily, 8 mg or more oral hydromorphone daily, 25 mg or more oral oxymorphone daily, 25 mcg or more transdermal fentanyl per hour, or an equivalent dose of another opioid.

Oral dosage for use as the first opioid analgesic or in patients who are not opioid-tolerant (extended-release tablets)

Oral dosage for conversion from other opioid analgesics or oxymorphone formulations (extended-release tablets)

Adults

In patients on immediate-release oxymorphone or other opioid analgesics, convert to an equivalent total daily oxymorphone dose and divide the 24-hour oxymorphone requirements into 2 equal doses given PO every 12 hours. If a patient has been taking parenteral oxymorphone, multiply the IV dose by 10 and administer in 2 equal doses PO every 12 hours. For example, if a patient was taking oxymorphone 4 mg IM, the corresponding oral oxymorphone dose is 40 mg PO daily, administered as 20 mg PO every 12 hours. Patients previously on opioids who are 65 years and older should receive a starting dose 50% lower than the starting dose for a younger patient previously on opioids. Use extreme caution when converting patients from methadone as the ratio between methadone and other opioid agonists can vary widely. Titrate by 5—10 mg/dose every 12 hours as appropriate every 3—7 days.

For the relief of anxiety in patients with dyspnea associated with pulmonary edema secondary to acute left ventricular dysfunction.

MAXIMUM DOSAGE

With appropriate dosage titration, there is no maximum dose of oxymorphone.

Geriatric

With appropriate dosage titration, there is no maximum dose of oxymorphone.

Adolescents

Safe and effective use have not been established.

Children

Safe and effective use have not been established.

Infants

Safe and effective use have not been established.

DOSING CONSIDERATIONS

Hepatic Impairment

Oxymorphone is extensively metabolized in the liver and all dosage forms are contraindicated in patients with moderate and severe hepatic dysfunction. Use oxymorphone cautiously in patients with mild hepatic impairment. When using immediate-release tablets and parenteral dosage forms, initiate therapy with the lowest dose, titrate slowly, and carefully monitor for side effects. When using extended-release tablets in opioid-naive patients, start with a 5 mg dose. For patients previously on other opioids, start with a dose 50% lower than the recommended dose in a patient with normal hepatic function. Titrate all doses slowly and monitor patients for respiratory or CNS depression.

Renal Impairment

CrCl < 50 ml/min: Adjust dose as follows:-Immediate-release tablets and parenteral dosage forms: Administer oxymorphone cautiously at reduced doses and monitor for side effects. -Extended-release tablets: For opiate-naive patients, start with a 5 mg PO dose. For patients previously on other opioids, start with a dose 50% lower than the recommended dose in a patient with normal renal function. Titrate all doses slowly and monitor patients for respiratory or CNS depression.

ADMINISTRATION

Oral Administration

Whether administering the extended-release or the immediate-release tablets, administer on an empty stomach either 1 hour before or 2 hours after eating.

Oral Solid Formulations

When initiating therapy, it is better to begin with immediate release preparations and titrate to the appropriate analgesic dose and then convert the patient to a sustained release product.Swallow the immediate- and extended-release tablets whole; do not crush, break, or chew. Administration of broken, chewed, dissolved, or crushed tablets leads to rapid release and absorption of a potentially fatal dose of oxymorphone, particularly with extended-release formulations.Do not pre-soak, lick, or otherwise wet the extended-release tablets prior to placing in the mouth.Take the extended-release tablets one at a time with enough water to ensure complete swallowing immediately after placing in the mouth.Disposal: Advise patients and/or caregivers to dispose of unneeded oxymorphone tablets by flushing them down the toilet as soon as possible; do not flush packaging.

CONTRAINDICATIONS / PRECAUTIONS

Oxymorphone use is contraindicated in patients with known opiate agonist hypersensitivity, specifically hypersensitivity to oxymorphone or other opioid agonists of the phenanthrene subclass including morphine, oxycodone, codeine, and hydromorphone. True opiate agonist hypersensitivity is rare. It may be possible to treat such patients with an opioid agonist from the phenylpiperidine subclass (meperidine or fentanyl) or the diphenylheptane subclass (methadone). Also, patients with paraben hypersensitivity may not be appropriate candidates for the extended-release tablets; the extended release tablets contain methylparaben. Some oxymorphone formulations may contain lactose; patients with lactase deficiency should take appropriate precautions with use.

Like all opioid analgesics, oxymorphone use is associated with a significant potential for overdose or poisoning; proper patient selection and counseling is recommended. The extended-release formulation is not intended for use in the management of pain following surgery, acute pain, or on an as-needed basis; it is intended only for patients requiring continuous, around-the-clock opioid analgesia for an extended period of time and requires an experienced clinician who is knowledgeable in the use of long-acting opioids for the management of chronic pain. Further, the misuse of oxymorphone tablets by crushing, chewing, snorting, or injecting the dissolved product poses a significant risk to the abuser and may result in overdose and death. Oxymorphone should be kept out of reach of pediatric patients, others for whom the drug was not prescribed, and pets as accidental exposure or improper use may cause respiratory failure and a fatal overdose. Consumption with ethanol will result in additive CNS depression, and use with extended-release tablets will result in increased drug exposure that may cause a fatal overdose. Co-ingestion of oxymorphone extended-release and alcohol or other CNS depressants may result in hypotension, oversedation, respiratory depression, coma, and death. Advise patients to avoid ethanol ingestion and intoxication, including the ingestion of alcohol contained in prescription or non-prescription medications, during therapy. Patients with alcoholism should be advised of this serious risk, or an alternative medication used. Oxymorphone is an opioid agonist and therefore has abuse potential and risk of fatal overdose from respiratory failure. Addiction may occur in patients who obtain oxymorphone illicitly or in those appropriately prescribed the drug. The risk of addiction in any individual is unknown. However, patients with mental illness (e.g., major depression) or a family history of substance abuse (including alcoholism) have an increased risk of opioid abuse. Assess patients for risks of addiction, abuse, or misuse before drug initiation, and monitor patients who receive opioids routinely for development of these behaviors or conditions. A potential risk of abuse should not preclude appropriate pain management in any patient, but requires more intensive counseling and monitoring. Abuse and addiction are separate and distinct from physical dependence and tolerance; patients with addiction may not exhibit tolerance and symptoms of physical dependence. To discourage abuse, the smallest appropriate quantity of oxymorphone should be prescribed, and proper disposal instructions for unused drug should be given to patients.

As with other opioid agonists, oxymorphone should be avoided in patients with severe pulmonary disease. Additionally, avoid coadministration with other CNS depressants unless no other alternatives are available, as coadministration significantly increases the risk for respiratory depression, low blood pressure, and death. Oxymorphone injection and immediate-release tablets are contraindicated for use in patients with respiratory depression except in monitored settings and in the presence of resuscitative equipment , while the extended-release tablet formulation is contraindicated in patients with significant respiratory depression. Because even moderate doses of oxymorphone may result in a critical decrease in pulmonary function, use of all forms of oxymorphone are also contraindicated in patients with acute or severe asthma (e.g., status asthmaticus) and in those with hypercapnia, whether from pulmonary disease, respiratory insufficiency, or other cause. In patients with pulmonary disease such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), cor pulmonale, decreased respiratory reserve, hypoxemia, hypercapnia, respiratory insufficiency, upper airway obstruction, or preexisting respiratory depression, it is recommended that non-opioid analgesics be considered as alternatives to oxymorphone, as even usual therapeutic doses may decrease respiratory drive and cause apnea in these patient populations. Extreme caution should also be used in patients with chronic asthma, kyphoscoliosis (a type of scoliosis), or paralysis of the phrenic nerve. Oxymorphone should be used with extreme caution during impaired consciousness, as significant decreases in respiratory drive may lead to adverse intracranial effects from carbon dioxide retention; use of oxymorphone extended-release tablets is not recommended in these patients. Patients with advanced age, debilitation, or sleep apnea are at an increased risk for the development of respiratory depression associated with oxymorphone. Use with caution in patients with obesity as this is a risk factor for obstructive sleep-apnea syndrome and/or decreased respiratory reserve. Respiratory depression, if left untreated, may cause respiratory arrest and death. Symptoms of respiratory depression include a reduced urge to breathe, a decreased respiratory rate, or deep breaths separated by long pauses (a "sighing" breathing pattern). Carbon dioxide retention from respiratory depression may also worsen opioid sedating effects. Only healthcare professionals who are knowledgeable of the use of potent opioids for the management of chronic pain should prescribe oxymorphone extended-release tablets. The extended-release tablets should be reserved for patients in whom alternative treatment options (e.g., non-opioid analgesics or immediate-release opioids) are ineffective, not tolerated, or would be otherwise inadequate to provide sufficient management of pain. Do not use extended-release tablets as a "prn" or "as needed" analgesic, for acute pain, or if the pain is mild or not expected to persist for an extended period of time. Proper dosing and titration are essential; patients should be monitored for respiratory depression, particularly after therapy initiation or after a dose increase. Caution should be exercised when converting from a different opioid to oxymorphone, as initial dose overestimation may lead to fatal overdose. If treatment of respiratory depression in an individual physically dependent on opioids is necessary, administer the opioid antagonist with extreme care; titrate the antagonist dose by using smaller than usual doses. A high level of vigilant monitoring is recommended and supportive care should be given as needed. Injectable oxymorphone is contraindicated in patients with upper airway obstruction and in the treatment of patients with pulmonary edema secondary to a chemical respiratory irritant. Opioid analgesics cause pooling of blood in the extremities by decreasing peripheral vascular resistance. This effect results in decreases in venous return, cardiac work, and pulmonary venous pressure, and blood is shifted from the central to peripheral circulation, which would not be beneficial in the treatment of pulmonary edema.

Abrupt discontinuation

Abrupt discontinuation of prolonged oxymorphone therapy can result in withdrawal symptoms. Gradually taper patients off prolonged oxymorphone therapy to avoid a withdrawal reaction. Avoid use of partial agonists (e.g., buprenorphine), mixed agonist/antagonists (e.g., nalbuphine), or pure antagonists (e.g., naloxone) in patients physically dependent on opioids, as an acute withdrawal syndrome may precipitate. The severity of the withdrawal syndrome produced will depend on the degree of physical dependence and on the administered dose of the concomitant drug. If treatment of respiratory depression in an individual physically dependent on opioids is necessary, administer the opioid antagonist with extreme care; titrate the antagonist dose by using smaller than usual doses. In addition, the use of partial agonists or mixed agonist/antagonists in patients who have received or are receiving oxymorphone should be avoided as these medications may reduce the analgesic effect of oxymorphone.

Oxymorphone is contraindicated in a patient who has or is suspected of having a paralytic ileus. Due to the effects of opioid agonists on the gastrointestinal tract, oxymorphone should be used cautiously in patients with GI disease including GI obstruction, ulcerative colitis, or pre-existing constipation; oxymorphone extended-release tablets are contraindicated in patients with GI obstruction. Consider use of an alternative analgesic to oxymorphone extended-release tablets in patients with dysphagia and patients at risk for underlying GI disorders resulting in a small GI lumen as there are post-marketing reports of choking, gagging, regurgitation, tablets getting stuck in the throat, and intestinal obstruction. Patients with ulcerative colitis (UC) or other inflammatory bowel disease may be more sensitive to the constipating effects of opioid agonists. Opioid agonists may obscure the diagnosis or clinical course in patients with an acute abdomen. Although opioid agonists are not desirable for use in patients with diarrhea secondary to poisoning or infectious diarrhea, antimotility agents have been used successfully in these patients. If possible, opioid agonists should not be given until the toxic substance has been eliminated.

Biliary tract disease, pancreatitis

Oxymorphone and opiate agonists increase the tone of the biliary tract causing spasms (especially in the sphincter of Oddi) increasing biliary tract pressure. Biliary effects of oxymorphone may result in plasma amylase and lipase concentrations to 2—15 times the normal values. Oxymorphone should be used cautiously in patients with biliary tract disease such as acute pancreatitis or undergoing biliary tract surgery.

Oxymorphone and other opioid agonists produce cholinergic side effects by stimulating medullary vagal nuclei causing bradycardia and by inducing the release of histamine causing peripheral vasodilation. In patients who are unable to maintain blood pressure due to hypovolemia or dehydration, or who concurrently receive other agents that compromise vasomotor tone (e.g., phenothiazines or general anesthetics), peripheral vasodilatation and severe hypotension may occur. These effects can cause problems in patients with cardiac disease (e.g., angina, heart failure). Oxymorphone should be used with caution in patients with cardiac arrhythmias or orthostatic hypotension. Extended-release tablets should not be used in patients with circulatory shock; caution should be exercised if other dosage forms are used. Monitor patients for signs of hypotension after initiating or titrating doses of oxymorphone.

Oxymorphone should be used with extreme caution in patients with head trauma, increased intracranial pressure (ICP), an intracranial mass, or a preexisting seizure disorder. Opiate agonists can compromise the evaluation of neurologic parameters. Opioid analgesics can produce effects on pupillary response and consciousness, which may obscure neurologic signs of further increases in intracranial pressure in patients with head injuries. Rapid administration of high-dose opiate agonists may transiently elevate intracranial pressure and reduce cerebral perfusion pressures. These events are associated with opiate-induced lowering of mean arterial pressure, which stimulates a regulatory response to increase cerebral blood flow leading to increased ICP. Opiate agonist-induced respiratory depression can produce cerebral hypoxia and raise CSF pressure, which is unrelated to but may exaggerate the injury. Avoid the use of oxymorphone in patients with impaired consciousness or coma. Opiate analgesics, especially in high doses, can precipitate seizures.

Hepatic disease

All dosage forms of oxymorphone are contraindicated in patients with moderate or severe hepatic impairment, and likewise moderate to severe hepatic disease. As oxymorphone is dependent on hepatic metabolism, drug accumulation or prolonged duration of action is associated with hepatic impairment (see Pharmacokinetics). Use oxymorphone cautiously in patients with mild hepatic impairment; start with the lowest dose and slowly titrate the dose while carefully monitoring for side effects.

Oxymorphone and other opiate agonists can cause urinary retention and oliguria due to increasing the tension of the detrusor muscle. Patients more prone to these effects include those with bladder obstruction, prostatic hypertrophy, urethral stricture, pelvic malignancy, or renal disease. Drug accumulation or prolonged duration of action can occur in patients with renal impairment. As greater drug exposure also occurs in patients with renal impairment (see Pharmacokinetics), administer oxymorphone cautiously and in reduced dosages to patients with a CrCl < 50 ml/min. Oxymorphone accumulates in renal failure. In ten uremic patients, the excretion of both conjugated and unconjugated forms of oxymorphone was significantly reduced.

Infants, neonates

Neonates and infants < 6 months of age have highly variable clearance of opiate agonists. Therefore, infants younger than 6 months of age may be given opiate agonists but must be closely monitored for apnea until 24 hours after their last dose. Clinical practice guidelines suggest close monitoring of children up to 1 year of age. The safety and effectiveness of oxymorphone in neonates, infants, children, and adolescents have not been established.

Geriatric

Use oxymorphone with caution in geriatric or debilitated patients. Geriatric patients are more sensitive to the analgesic effects of oxymorphone, as they experience higher peak serum concentrations and a longer duration of pain relief. The plasma concentrations of oxymorphone are about 40% higher in patients 65 years of age and older as compared with younger adult patients. Sedation and respiratory depression may result from altered distribution or decreased elimination of the drug. Dizziness, somnolence, confusion, and nausea were more frequently observed in subjects 65 years of age and over compared to younger subjects during clinical studies. Initial doses may need to be reduced, and doses should be carefully titrated taking into account analgesic effects, adverse reactions, and concomitant drugs that may depress respiration. When using the extended-release tablets, initiate therapy using the 5 mg dose in opioid-naive geriatric patients; start geriatric patients on prior opioid therapy at 50% of the starting dose for a younger patient previously on opioids. According to the Beers Criteria, opiate agonists are considered potentially inappropriate medications (PIMs) in geriatric patients with a history of falls or fractures and should be avoided in these patient populations, with the exception of pain management due to recent fractures or joint replacement, since opiates can produce ataxia, impaired psychomotor function, syncope, and additional falls. If an opiate must be used, consider reducing use of other CNS-active medications that increase the risk of falls and fractures and implement other strategies to reduce fall risk. Individuals receiving palliative care or those in hospice settings are excluded from the Beers Criteria; the balance of benefits and harms of medication management for these patients may differ from those of the general population of older adults. The federal Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act (OBRA) regulates medication use in residents of long-term care facilities (LTCFs). The Guidelines caution that opioids may cause constipation, nausea, vomiting, sedation, lethargy, weakness, confusion, dysphoria, physical and psychological dependency, hallucinations, and unintended respiratory depression, especially in individuals with compromised pulmonary function. These adverse effects can lead to other consequences such as falls. In addition, the initiation of longer-acting opioids (e.g., extended-release oxymorphone) is not recommended unless shorter-acting opioids have been unsuccessful, or titration of shorter-acting doses has established a clear daily dose of opioid analgesic that can be provided by using a long-acting form.

Oxymorphone is classified as FDA pregnancy category C. No adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women have been conducted. As with other analgesics, the use of oxymorphone in pregnancy or in women of child-bearing potential requires that the possible benefits of the drug be weighed against the possible hazards to the mother and the child. Oral oxymorphone is not recommended for use in women during and immediately prior to labor, as use of shorter acting analgesics or other analgesic techniques are more appropriate. While oxymorphone has been used in the obstetric setting, caution is advised under various circumstances during labor and obstetric delivery. Sinusoidal fetal heart rate patterns may occur with the use of opioid analgesics. If used during the second stage of labor, the duration of labor can be prolonged by temporarily reducing the strength, duration, and frequency of uterine contractions. However, this effect is not consistent and may be offset by an increased rate of cervical dilation. Generally, the effect of opioids on the pregnant uterus appears to depend on the time of administration. Administration of the drugs during the latent phase of the first stage of labor or before cervical dilation of 4—5 cm may hamper the progress of labor. The risk of respiratory and CNS depression is especially important for premature infants who are particularly sensitive. A specific opioid antagonist, such as naloxone, should be available for reversal of opioid-induced respiratory depression in the neonate. Further, the prolonged maternal use of long-acting opioids, such as oxymorphone, during pregnancy may result in neonatal opioid withdrawal syndrome (NOWS). This syndrome can be life-threatening. Severe symptoms may require pharmacologic therapy managed by clinicians familiar with neonatal opioid withdrawal. Monitor the neonate for withdrawal symptoms including irritability, hyperactivity, abnormal sleep pattern, high-pitched crying, tremor, vomiting, diarrhea, and failure to gain weight. Onset, duration, and severity of opioid withdrawal may vary based on the specific opioid used, duration of use, timing and amount of last maternal use, and rate of elimination by the newborn. The effect of oxymorphone, if any, on the later growth, development, and functional maturation of the child is unknown.

Breast-feeding

It is not known whether oxymorphone is excreted in human milk. Because many drugs, including some opioids, are excreted in human milk, caution should be exercised when oxymorphone is administered to a woman who is breast-feeding. Ordinarily, a mother who is taking oxymorphone should not breast-feed because of the possibility of sedation and respiratory depression in the infant. If breast-feeding continues, the infant should be observed for possible adverse effects. In general, the lowest effective maternal dose should be administered. Withdrawal symptoms may occur in infants whose mothers discontinue chronic opioid therapy. Alternative analgesics considered to be usually compatible with breast-feeding by the American Academy of Pediatrics include acetaminophen, ibuprofen, and morphine. Consider the benefits of breast-feeding, the risk of potential infant drug exposure, and the risk of an untreated or inadequately treated condition. If a breast-feeding infant experiences an adverse effect related to a maternally administered drug, healthcare providers are encouraged to report the adverse effect to the FDA.

Adrenal insufficiency, hypothyroidism, myxedema

Use oxymorphone with caution in patients with adrenal insufficiency (i.e., Addison's disease), hypothyroidism, or myxedema. Such patients may be at increased risk of adverse events. Opioids inhibit the secretion of adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), cortisol, and luteinizing hormone (LH); however, the thyroid stimulating hormone may be either stimulated or inhibited by opioids. Rarely, adrenal insufficiency has been reported in association with opioid use. Patients should seek immediate medical attention if they experience symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, fatigue, weakness, dizziness, or hypotension. If adrenocortical insufficiency is suspected, confirm with diagnostic testing as soon as possible. If diagnosed, the patient should be treated with physiologic replacement doses of corticosteroids, and if appropriate, weaned off of opioid therapy. If the opioid can be discontinued, a follow-up assessment of adrenal function should be performed to determine if corticosteroid treatment can be discontinued. Other opioids may be tried; some cases reported use of a different opioid with no recurrence of adrenocortical insufficiency. It is unclear which, if any, opioids are more likely to cause adrenocortical insufficiency. In addition, chronic opioid use may lead to symptoms of hypogonadism, resulting from changes in the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis. Monitor patients for symptoms of opioid-induced endocrinopathy, particularly those receiving a daily dose equivalent to 100 mg or more of morphine. Patients presenting with signs or symptoms of androgen deficiency should undergo laboratory evaluation.

Driving or operating machinery

As with other opiate agonist, any patient receiving oxymorphone should be warned about the possibility of sedation and to use caution when driving or operating machinery or performing other hazardous tasks.

DRUG INTERACTIONS

Acetaminophen; Butalbital; Caffeine; Codeine: (Major) Concomitant use of oxymorphone with other CNS depressants may produce additive CNS depressant effects. Respiratory depression, hypotension, profound sedation, or coma may result from combination therapy. Prior to concurrent use of oxymorphone in patients taking a CNS depressant, assess the level of tolerance to CNS depression that has developed, the duration of use, and the patient's overall response to treatment. Consider the patient's use of alcohol or illicit drugs. Oxymorphone should be used in reduced dosages if used concurrently with a CNS depressant; initiate oxymorphone at one-third to one-half the usual dosage in patients that are concurrently receiving another CNS depressant. Also consider a using a lower dose of the CNS depressant. Slowly titrate the dose as necessary for adequate pain relief and monitor for sedation or respiratory depression. Acetaminophen; Caffeine; Dihydrocodeine: (Major) Concomitant use of oxymorphone with other CNS depressants may produce additive CNS depressant effects. Respiratory depression, hypotension, profound sedation, or coma may result from combination therapy. Prior to concurrent use of oxymorphone in patients taking a CNS depressant, assess the level of tolerance to CNS depression that has developed, the duration of use, and the patient's overall response to treatment. Consider the patient's use of alcohol or illicit drugs. Oxymorphone should be used in reduced dosages if used concurrently with a CNS depressant; initiate oxymorphone at one-third to one-half the usual dosage in patients that are concurrently receiving another CNS depressant. Also consider a using a lower dose of the CNS depressant. Slowly titrate the dose as necessary for adequate pain relief and monitor for sedation or respiratory depression. Acetaminophen; Caffeine; Magnesium Salicylate; Phenyltoloxamine: (Moderate) Concomitant use of oxymorphone with other CNS depressants may produce additive CNS depressant effects. Hypotension, profound sedation, coma, respiratory depression, or death may occur; examples of other CNS depressants include sedating H1-blockers. Prior to concurrent use of oxymorphone in patients taking a CNS depressant, assess the level of tolerance to CNS depression that has developed, the duration of use, and the patient's overall response to treatment. Consider the patient's use of alcohol or illicit drugs. If a CNS depressant is used concurrently with oxymorphone, a reduced dosage of oxymorphone (1/3 to 1/2 of the usual dose) and/or the CNS depressant is recommended. If the extended-release oxymorphone tablets are used concurrently with a CNS depressant, it is recommended to use an initial dosage of 5 mg PO every 12 hours. Monitor for sedation or respiratory depression. Acetaminophen; Caffeine; Phenyltoloxamine; Salicylamide: (Moderate) Concomitant use of oxymorphone with other CNS depressants may produce additive CNS depressant effects. Hypotension, profound sedation, coma, respiratory depression, or death may occur; examples of other CNS depressants include sedating H1-blockers. Prior to concurrent use of oxymorphone in patients taking a CNS depressant, assess the level of tolerance to CNS depression that has developed, the duration of use, and the patient's overall response to treatment. Consider the patient's use of alcohol or illicit drugs. If a CNS depressant is used concurrently with oxymorphone, a reduced dosage of oxymorphone (1/3 to 1/2 of the usual dose) and/or the CNS depressant is recommended. If the extended-release oxymorphone tablets are used concurrently with a CNS depressant, it is recommended to use an initial dosage of 5 mg PO every 12 hours. Monitor for sedation or respiratory depression. Acetaminophen; Chlorpheniramine; Dextromethorphan; Phenylephrine: (Moderate) Concomitant use of oxymorphone with other CNS depressants may produce additive CNS depressant effects. Hypotension, profound sedation, coma, respiratory depression, or death may occur; examples of other CNS depressants include sedating H1-blockers. Prior to concurrent use of oxymorphone in patients taking a CNS depressant, assess the level of tolerance to CNS depression that has developed, the duration of use, and the patient's overall response to treatment. Consider the patient's use of alcohol or illicit drugs. If a CNS depressant is used concurrently with oxymorphone, a reduced dosage of oxymorphone (1/3 to 1/2 of the usual dose) and/or the CNS depressant is recommended. If the extended-release oxymorphone tablets are used concurrently with a CNS depressant, it is recommended to use an initial dosage of 5 mg PO every 12 hours. Monitor for sedation or respiratory depression. Acetaminophen; Chlorpheniramine; Dextromethorphan; Pseudoephedrine: (Moderate) Concomitant use of oxymorphone with other CNS depressants may produce additive CNS depressant effects. Hypotension, profound sedation, coma, respiratory depression, or death may occur; examples of other CNS depressants include sedating H1-blockers. Prior to concurrent use of oxymorphone in patients taking a CNS depressant, assess the level of tolerance to CNS depression that has developed, the duration of use, and the patient's overall response to treatment. Consider the patient's use of alcohol or illicit drugs. If a CNS depressant is used concurrently with oxymorphone, a reduced dosage of oxymorphone (1/3 to 1/2 of the usual dose) and/or the CNS depressant is recommended. If the extended-release oxymorphone tablets are used concurrently with a CNS depressant, it is recommended to use an initial dosage of 5 mg PO every 12 hours. Monitor for sedation or respiratory depression. Acetaminophen; Chlorpheniramine; Phenylephrine; Phenyltoloxamine: (Moderate) Concomitant use of oxymorphone with other CNS depressants may produce additive CNS depressant effects. Hypotension, profound sedation, coma, respiratory depression, or death may occur; examples of other CNS depressants include sedating H1-blockers. Prior to concurrent use of oxymorphone in patients taking a CNS depressant, assess the level of tolerance to CNS depression that has developed, the duration of use, and the patient's overall response to treatment. Consider the patient's use of alcohol or illicit drugs. If a CNS depressant is used concurrently with oxymorphone, a reduced dosage of oxymorphone (1/3 to 1/2 of the usual dose) and/or the CNS depressant is recommended. If the extended-release oxymorphone tablets are used concurrently with a CNS depressant, it is recommended to use an initial dosage of 5 mg PO every 12 hours. Monitor for sedation or respiratory depression. Acetaminophen; Codeine: (Major) Concomitant use of oxymorphone with other CNS depressants may produce additive CNS depressant effects. Respiratory depression, hypotension, profound sedation, or coma may result from combination therapy. Prior to concurrent use of oxymorphone in patients taking a CNS depressant, assess the level of tolerance to CNS depression that has developed, the duration of use, and the patient's overall response to treatment. Consider the patient's use of alcohol or illicit drugs. Oxymorphone should be used in reduced dosages if used concurrently with a CNS depressant; initiate oxymorphone at one-third to one-half the usual dosage in patients that are concurrently receiving another CNS depressant. Also consider a using a lower dose of the CNS depressant. Slowly titrate the dose as necessary for adequate pain relief and monitor for sedation or respiratory depression. Acetaminophen; Dextromethorphan; Doxylamine: (Moderate) Concomitant use of oxymorphone with other CNS depressants may produce additive CNS depressant effects. Hypotension, profound sedation, coma, respiratory depression, or death may occur; examples of other CNS depressants include sedating H1-blockers. Prior to concurrent use of oxymorphone in patients taking a CNS depressant, assess the level of tolerance to CNS depression that has developed, the duration of use, and the patient's overall response to treatment. Consider the patient's use of alcohol or illicit drugs. If a CNS depressant is used concurrently with oxymorphone, a reduced dosage of oxymorphone (1/3 to 1/2 of the usual dose) and/or the CNS depressant is recommended. If the extended-release oxymorphone tablets are used concurrently with a CNS depressant, it is recommended to use an initial dosage of 5 mg PO every 12 hours. Monitor for sedation or respiratory depression. Acetaminophen; Diphenhydramine: (Moderate) Concomitant use of oxymorphone with other CNS depressants may produce additive CNS depressant effects. Hypotension, profound sedation, coma, respiratory depression, or death may occur; examples of other CNS depressants include sedating H1-blockers. Prior to concurrent use of oxymorphone in patients taking a CNS depressant, assess the level of tolerance to CNS depression that has developed, the duration of use, and the patient's overall response to treatment. Consider the patient's use of alcohol or illicit drugs. If a CNS depressant is used concurrently with oxymorphone, a reduced dosage of oxymorphone (1/3 to 1/2 of the usual dose) and/or the CNS depressant is recommended. If the extended-release oxymorphone tablets are used concurrently with a CNS depressant, it is recommended to use an initial dosage of 5 mg PO every 12 hours. Monitor for sedation or respiratory depression. Acetaminophen; Hydrocodone: (Major) Concomitant use of hydrocodone with other CNS depressants may lead to hypotension, profound sedation, coma, respiratory depression and death. Prior to concurrent use of hydrocodone in patients taking a CNS depressant, assess the level of tolerance to CNS depression that has developed, the duration of use, and the patient's overall response to treatment. Consider the patient's use of alcohol or illicit drugs. Hydrocodone should be used in reduced dosages if used concurrently with a CNS depressant; initiate hydrocodone at 20 to 30% of the usual dosage in patients that are concurrently receiving another CNS depressant. Also consider a using a lower dose of the CNS depressant. Monitor patients for sedation and respiratory depression. Acetaminophen; Oxycodone: (Major) Concomitant use of oxycodone with other opiate agonists may lead to additive respiratory and/or CNS depression. Hypotension, profound sedation, coma, respiratory depression, or death may occur. Prior to concurrent use of oxycodone in patients taking a CNS depressant, assess the level of tolerance to CNS depression that has developed, the duration of use, and the patient's overall response to treatment. Consider the patient's use of alcohol or illicit drugs. If a CNS depressant is used concurrently with oxycodone, a reduced dosage of oxycodone and/or the CNS depressant is recommended; use an initial dose of oxycodone at 1/3 to 1/2 the usual dosage. a reduced dosage of oxymorphone (1/3 to 1/2 of the usual dose) and/or the CNS depressant is recommended. If the extended-release oxymorphone tablets are used concurrently with a CNS depressant, it is recommended to use an initial dosage of 5 mg PO every 12 hours. Monitor for sedation and respiratory depression. Acetaminophen; Pentazocine: (Major) Avoid the concomitant use of pentazocine and opiate agonists, such as oxymorphone. Pentazocine is a mixed opiate agonist/antagonist that may block the effects of opiate agonists and reduce analgesic effects. Pentazocine may cause withdrawal symptoms in patients receiving chronic opiate agonists. Concurrent use of pentazocine with other opiate agonists can cause additive CNS, respiratory, and hypotensive effects. The additive or antagonistic effects are dependent upon the dose of the opiate agonist used; antagonistic effects are more common at low to moderate doses of the opiate agonist. Acetaminophen; Propoxyphene: (Major) Propoxyphene is a weak mu-opiate receptor agonist. As other opiate agonists bind to mu-opiate receptors, concurrent use of an opiate agonist with propoxyphene is not desirable. Also, propoxyphene will only partially suppress the withdrawal syndrome in patients physically dependent on narcotics. The choice of one mu-opiate receptor agonist needs to be made to avoid duplicate therapy and possible adverse effects. Concomitant use of oxymorphone with propoxyphene can lead to additive respiratory depression, hypotension, profound sedation, or coma. Propoxyphene in combination with other CNS depressants is a major cause of drug-related death. Fatalities within the first hour of overdosage are not uncommon. Extreme caution is needed during concomitant use of any CNS-depressant drug and propoxyphene. Prior to concurrent use of oxymorphone in patients taking a propoxyphene, assess the level of tolerance to CNS depression that has developed, the duration of use, and the patient's overall response to treatment. Consider the patient's use of alcohol or illicit drugs. Oxymorphone should be used in reduced dosages if used concurrently with a CNS depressant; also consider a using a lower dose of the CNS depressant. Monitor patients for sedation and respiratory depression. Acetaminophen; Tramadol: (Major) Tramadol can cause additive CNS depression and respiratory depression when used with opiate agonists such as oxymorphone. Concomitant use of tramadol and opiate agonists may also increase the risk of seizures; avoid concurrent use whenever possible. Hypotension, profound sedation, coma, respiratory depression, or death may occur. Prior to concurrent use of oxymorphone in patients taking a CNS depressant, assess the level of tolerance to CNS depression that has developed, the duration of use, and the patient's overall response to treatment. Consider the patient's use of alcohol or illicit drugs. If a CNS depressant is used concurrently with oxymorphone, a reduced dosage of oxymorphone (1/3 to 1/2 of the usual dose) and/or the CNS depressant is recommended. If the extended-release oxymorphone tablets are used concurrently with a CNS depressant, it is recommended to use an initial dosage of 5 mg PO every 12 hours. Monitor for sedation or respiratory depression. Acrivastine; Pseudoephedrine: (Moderate) Concomitant use of oxymorphone with other CNS depressants may produce additive CNS depressant effects. Hypotension, profound sedation, coma, respiratory depression, or death may occur; examples of other CNS depressants include sedating H1-blockers. Prior to concurrent use of oxymorphone in patients taking a CNS depressant, assess the level of tolerance to CNS depression that has developed, the duration of use, and the patient's overall response to treatment. Consider the patient's use of alcohol or illicit drugs. If a CNS depressant is used concurrently with oxymorphone, a reduced dosage of oxymorphone (1/3 to 1/2 of the usual dose) and/or the CNS depressant is recommended. If the extended-release oxymorphone tablets are used concurrently with a CNS depressant, it is recommended to use an initial dosage of 5 mg PO every 12 hours. Monitor for sedation or respiratory depression. Aldesleukin, IL-2: (Moderate) Aldesleukin, IL-2 may affect CNS function significantly. Therefore, psychotropic pharmacodynamic interactions could occur following concomitant administration of drugs with significant CNS or psychotropic activity such as opiate agonists. In addition, aldesleukin, IL-2, is a CYP3A4 inhibitor and may increase oxycodone plasma concentrations and related toxicities including potentially fatal respiratory depression. If therapy with both agents is necessary, monitor patients for an extended period and adjust oxycodone dosage as necessary. Alfentanil: (Major) Concomitant use of oxymorphone with other CNS depressants may produce additive CNS depressant effects. Respiratory depression, hypotension, profound sedation, or coma may result from combination therapy. Prior to concurrent use of oxymorphone in patients taking a CNS depressant, assess the level of tolerance to CNS depression that has developed, the duration of use, and the patient's overall response to treatment. Consider the patient's use of alcohol or illicit drugs. Oxymorphone should be used in reduced dosages if used concurrently with a CNS depressant; initiate oxymorphone at one-third to one-half the usual dosage in patients that are concurrently receiving another CNS depressant. Also consider a using a lower dose of the CNS depressant. Slowly titrate the dose as necessary for adequate pain relief and monitor for sedation or respiratory depression. Aliskiren; Amlodipine; Hydrochlorothiazide, HCTZ: (Moderate) Opiate agonists may potentiate orthostatic hypotension when used concurrently with thiazide diuretics. Aliskiren; Hydrochlorothiazide, HCTZ: (Moderate) Opiate agonists may potentiate orthostatic hypotension when used concurrently with thiazide diuretics. Alosetron: (Major) Patients taking medications that decrease GI motility may be at greater risk for serious complications from alosetron, like constipation, via a pharmacodynamic interaction. Constipation is the most frequently reported adverse effect with alosetron. Alosetron, if used with drugs such as opiate agonists, may seriously worsen constipation, leading to events such as GI obstruction/impaction or paralytic ileus. Alprazolam: (Major) Concomitant use of opiate agonists with benzodiazepines may cause respiratory depression, hypotension, profound sedation, and death. Limit the use of opiate pain medications with benzodiazepines to only patients for whom alternative treatment options are inadequate. If concurrent use is necessary, use the lowest effective doses and minimum treatment durations needed to achieve the desired clinical effect. If oxymorphone is initiated in a patient taking a benzodiazepine, use an initial dose of oxymorphone at 1/3 to 1/2 the usual dosage and titrate to clinical response. If the extended-release oxymorphone tablets are used concurrently with a CNS depressant, use an initial dosage of 5 mg PO every 12 hours. If a benzodiazepine is prescribed for an indication other than epilepsy in a patient taking an opiate agonist, use a lower initial dose of the benzodiazepine and titrate to clinical response. Educate patients about the risks and symptoms of respiratory depression and sedation. Alvimopan: (Moderate) Patients should not take alvimopan if they have received therapeutic doses of opiate agonists for more than seven consecutive days immediately before initiation of alvimopan therapy. Patients recently exposed to opioids are expected to be more sensitive to the effects of mu-opioid receptor antagonists and may experience adverse effects localized to the gastrointestinal tract such as abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Amide local anesthetics: (Moderate) The use of these drugs together must be approached with caution. Although commonly used together for additive analgesic effects, the patient must be monitored for respiratory depression, hypotension, and excessive sedation due to additive effects on the CNS and blood pressure. In rare instances, serious morbidity and mortality has occurred. Limit the use of opiate pain medications with local anesthetics to only patients for whom alternative treatment options are inadequate. If concurrent use is necessary, use the lowest effective doses and minimum treatment durations needed to achieve the desired clinical effect. The use of the local anesthetic may allow for the use a lower initial dose of the opiate and then the doses can be titrated to proper clinical response. Educate patients about the risks and symptoms of respiratory depression and sedation. Amiloride; Hydrochlorothiazide, HCTZ: (Moderate) Opiate agonists may potentiate orthostatic hypotension when used concurrently with thiazide diuretics. Amitriptyline: (Moderate) Concomitant use of oxymorphone with other CNS depressants, such as tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs), may produce additive CNS depressant effects. Hypotension, profound sedation, respiratory depression, or coma may occur. Orthostasis may occur in ambulatory patients. Both oxymorphone and TCAs may produce constipation. Prior to concurrent use of oxymorphone in patients taking a TCA, assess the level of tolerance to CNS depression that has developed, the duration of use, and the patient's overall response to treatment. Consider the patient's use of alcohol or illicit drugs. If a TCA is used concurrently with oxymorphone, a reduced initial dosage of oxymorphone (one-third to one-half of the usual dose) and/or the CNS depressant is recommended. If the extended-release oxymorphone tablets are used concurrently with a CNS depressant, it is recommended to use an initial dosage of 5 mg PO every 12 hours. Monitor for sedation, respiratory depression, and for reduced GI motility. Amitriptyline; Chlordiazepoxide: (Major) Concomitant use of opiate agonists with benzodiazepines may cause respiratory depression, hypotension, profound sedation, and death. Limit the use of opiate pain medications with benzodiazepines to only patients for whom alternative treatment options are inadequate. If concurrent use is necessary, use the lowest effective doses and minimum treatment durations needed to achieve the desired clinical effect. If oxymorphone is initiated in a patient taking a benzodiazepine, use an initial dose of oxymorphone at 1/3 to 1/2 the usual dosage and titrate to clinical response. If the extended-release oxymorphone tablets are used concurrently with a CNS depressant, use an initial dosage of 5 mg PO every 12 hours. If a benzodiazepine is prescribed for an indication other than epilepsy in a patient taking an opiate agonist, use a lower initial dose of the benzodiazepine and titrate to clinical response. Educate patients about the risks and symptoms of respiratory depression and sedation. (Moderate) Concomitant use of oxymorphone with other CNS depressants, such as tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs), may produce additive CNS depressant effects. Hypotension, profound sedation, respiratory depression, or coma may occur. Orthostasis may occur in ambulatory patients. Both oxymorphone and TCAs may produce constipation. Prior to concurrent use of oxymorphone in patients taking a TCA, assess the level of tolerance to CNS depression that has developed, the duration of use, and the patient's overall response to treatment. Consider the patient's use of alcohol or illicit drugs. If a TCA is used concurrently with oxymorphone, a reduced initial dosage of oxymorphone (one-third to one-half of the usual dose) and/or the CNS depressant is recommended. If the extended-release oxymorphone tablets are used concurrently with a CNS depressant, it is recommended to use an initial dosage of 5 mg PO every 12 hours. Monitor for sedation, respiratory depression, and for reduced GI motility. Amlodipine; Hydrochlorothiazide, HCTZ; Olmesartan: (Moderate) Opiate agonists may potentiate orthostatic hypotension when used concurrently with thiazide diuretics. Amlodipine; Hydrochlorothiazide, HCTZ; Valsartan: (Moderate) Opiate agonists may potentiate orthostatic hypotension when used concurrently with thiazide diuretics. Amoxapine: (Moderate) Concomitant use of oxymorphone with other CNS depressants may produce additive CNS depressant effects. Hypotension, profound sedation, coma, respiratory depression, or death may occur; examples of other CNS depressants include amoxapine. Prior to concurrent use of oxymorphone in patients taking a CNS depressant, assess the level of tolerance to CNS depression that has developed, the duration of use, and the patient's overall response to treatment. Consider the patient's use of alcohol or illicit drugs. If a CNS depressant is used concurrently with oxymorphone, a reduced dosage of oxymorphone (1/3 to 1/2 of the usual dose) and/or the CNS depressant is recommended. If the extended-release oxymorphone tablets are used concurrently with a CNS depressant, it is recommended to use an initial dosage of 5 mg PO every 12 hours. Monitor for sedation or respiratory depression. Amyl Nitrite: (Moderate) Administration of nitrates such as amyl nitrite to patients receiving other hypotension-producing agents, such as opiate agonists, can cause additive hypotensive or orthostatic effects. Anticholinergics: (Moderate) Monitor patients for signs of urinary retention or reduced gastric motility when oxymorphone is used concomitantly with an anticholinergic drug. The concomitant use of oxymorphone and anticholinergic drugs may increase risk of urinary retention and/or severe constipation, which may lead to paralytic ileus. Opiates increase the tone and decrease the propulsive contractions of the smooth muscle of the gastrointestinal tract. Prolongation of the gastrointestinal transit time may be the mechanism of the constipating effect. Apomorphine: (Moderate) Apomorphine causes significant somnolence. Concomitant administration of apomorphine and CNS depressants could result in additive depressant effects. Apraclonidine: (Minor) Theoretically, apraclonidine might potentiate the effects of CNS depressant drugs such as opiate agonists. Although no specific drug interactions were identified with systemic agents and apraclonidine during clinical trials, apraclonidine can cause dizziness and somnolence. Articaine; Epinephrine: (Moderate) The use of these drugs together must be approached with caution. Although commonly used together for additive analgesic effects, the patient must be monitored for respiratory depression, hypotension, and excessive sedation due to additive effects on the CNS and blood pressure. In rare instances, serious morbidity and mortality has occurred. Limit the use of opiate pain medications with local anesthetics to only patients for whom alternative treatment options are inadequate. If concurrent use is necessary, use the lowest effective doses and minimum treatment durations needed to achieve the desired clinical effect. The use of the local anesthetic may allow for the use a lower initial dose of the opiate and then the doses can be titrated to proper clinical response. Educate patients about the risks and symptoms of respiratory depression and sedation. Asenapine: (Moderate) Drugs that can cause CNS depression, if used concomitantly with asenapine, may increase both the frequency and the intensity of adverse effects such as drowsiness, sedation, and dizziness. Caution should be used when asenapine is given in combination with other centrally-acting medications including opiate agonists. Aspirin, ASA; Butalbital; Caffeine; Codeine: (Major) Concomitant use of oxymorphone with other CNS depressants may produce additive CNS depressant effects. Respiratory depression, hypotension, profound sedation, or coma may result from combination therapy. Prior to concurrent use of oxymorphone in patients taking a CNS depressant, assess the level of tolerance to CNS depression that has developed, the duration of use, and the patient's overall response to treatment. Consider the patient's use of alcohol or illicit drugs. Oxymorphone should be used in reduced dosages if used concurrently with a CNS depressant; initiate oxymorphone at one-third to one-half the usual dosage in patients that are concurrently receiving another CNS depressant. Also consider a using a lower dose of the CNS depressant. Slowly titrate the dose as necessary for adequate pain relief and monitor for sedation or respiratory depression. Aspirin, ASA; Caffeine; Dihydrocodeine: (Major) Concomitant use of oxymorphone with other CNS depressants may produce additive CNS depressant effects. Respiratory depression, hypotension, profound sedation, or coma may result from combination therapy. Prior to concurrent use of oxymorphone in patients taking a CNS depressant, assess the level of tolerance to CNS depression that has developed, the duration of use, and the patient's overall response to treatment. Consider the patient's use of alcohol or illicit drugs. Oxymorphone should be used in reduced dosages if used concurrently with a CNS depressant; initiate oxymorphone at one-third to one-half the usual dosage in patients that are concurrently receiving another CNS depressant. Also consider a using a lower dose of the CNS depressant. Slowly titrate the dose as necessary for adequate pain relief and monitor for sedation or respiratory depression. Aspirin, ASA; Carisoprodol: (Major) Concomitant use of opiate agonists with skeletal muscle relaxants may cause respiratory depression, hypotension, profound sedation, and death. Limit the use of opiate pain medications with skeletal muscle relaxants to only patients for whom alternative treatment options are inadequate. If concurrent use is necessary, use the lowest effective doses and minimum treatment durations needed to achieve the desired clinical effect. If oxymorphone is initiated in a patient taking a skeletal muscle relaxant, use an initial dose of oxymorphone at one-third to one-half the usual dosage and titrate to clinical response. If the extended-release oxymorphone tablets are used concurrently with a skeletal muscle relaxant, use an initial dosage of 5 mg PO every 12 hours. If a skeletal muscle relaxant is prescribed for a patient taking an opiate agonist, use a lower initial dose of the skeletal muscle relaxant and titrate to clinical response. Educate patients about the risks and symptoms of respiratory depression and sedation. Aspirin, ASA; Carisoprodol; Codeine: (Major) Concomitant use of opiate agonists with skeletal muscle relaxants may cause respiratory depression, hypotension, profound sedation, and death. Limit the use of opiate pain medications with skeletal muscle relaxants to only patients for whom alternative treatment options are inadequate. If concurrent use is necessary, use the lowest effective doses and minimum treatment durations needed to achieve the desired clinical effect. If oxymorphone is initiated in a patient taking a skeletal muscle relaxant, use an initial dose of oxymorphone at one-third to one-half the usual dosage and titrate to clinical response. If the extended-release oxymorphone tablets are used concurrently with a skeletal muscle relaxant, use an initial dosage of 5 mg PO every 12 hours. If a skeletal muscle relaxant is prescribed for a patient taking an opiate agonist, use a lower initial dose of the skeletal muscle relaxant and titrate to clinical response. Educate patients about the risks and symptoms of respiratory depression and sedation. (Major) Concomitant use of oxymorphone with other CNS depressants may produce additive CNS depressant effects. Respiratory depression, hypotension, profound sedation, or coma may result from combination therapy. Prior to concurrent use of oxymorphone in patients taking a CNS depressant, assess the level of tolerance to CNS depression that has developed, the duration of use, and the patient's overall response to treatment. Consider the patient's use of alcohol or illicit drugs. Oxymorphone should be used in reduced dosages if used concurrently with a CNS depressant; initiate oxymorphone at one-third to one-half the usual dosage in patients that are concurrently receiving another CNS depressant. Also consider a using a lower dose of the CNS depressant. Slowly titrate the dose as necessary for adequate pain relief and monitor for sedation or respiratory depression. Aspirin, ASA; Oxycodone: (Major) Concomitant use of oxycodone with other opiate agonists may lead to additive respiratory and/or CNS depression. Hypotension, profound sedation, coma, respiratory depression, or death may occur. Prior to concurrent use of oxycodone in patients taking a CNS depressant, assess the level of tolerance to CNS depression that has developed, the duration of use, and the patient's overall response to treatment. Consider the patient's use of alcohol or illicit drugs. If a CNS depressant is used concurrently with oxycodone, a reduced dosage of oxycodone and/or the CNS depressant is recommended; use an initial dose of oxycodone at 1/3 to 1/2 the usual dosage. a reduced dosage of oxymorphone (1/3 to 1/2 of the usual dose) and/or the CNS depressant is recommended. If the extended-release oxymorphone tablets are used concurrently with a CNS depressant, it is recommended to use an initial dosage of 5 mg PO every 12 hours. Monitor for sedation and respiratory depression. Atenolol; Chlorthalidone: (Moderate) Opiate agonists may potentiate orthostatic hypotension when used concurrently with thiazide diuretics. Atracurium: (Moderate) Additive CNS depression may occur if opiate agonists are used concomitantly with other CNS depressants, including neuromuscular blockers. Atropine; Difenoxin: (Major) Concurrent administration of diphenoxylate/difenoxin with other opiate agonists can potentiate the CNS-depressant effects of diphenoxylate/difenoxin. Use caution during coadministration. In addition, diphenoxylate/difenoxin use may cause constipation; cases of severe GI reactions including toxic megacolon and adynamic ileus have been reported. Reduced GI motility when combined with opiate agonists may increase the risk of serious GI related adverse events. Atropine; Diphenoxylate: (Major) Concurrent administration of diphenoxylate/difenoxin with other opiate agonists can potentiate the CNS-depressant effects of diphenoxylate/difenoxin. Use caution during coadministration. In addition, diphenoxylate/difenoxin use may cause constipation; cases of severe GI reactions including toxic megacolon and adynamic ileus have been reported. Reduced GI motility when combined with opiate agonists may increase the risk of serious GI related adverse events. Azelastine: (Moderate) An enhanced CNS depressant effect may occur when azelastine is combined with other CNS depressants including opiate agonists. A dose reduction of one or both drugs may be warranted. Azelastine; Fluticasone: (Moderate) An enhanced CNS depressant effect may occur when azelastine is combined with other CNS depressants including opiate agonists. A dose reduction of one or both drugs may be warranted. Azilsartan; Chlorthalidone: (Moderate) Opiate agonists may potentiate orthostatic hypotension when used concurrently with thiazide diuretics. Baclofen: (Major) Concomitant use of opiate agonists with skeletal muscle relaxants may cause respiratory depression, hypotension, profound sedation, and death. Limit the use of opiate pain medications with skeletal muscle relaxants to only patients for whom alternative treatment options are inadequate. If concurrent use is necessary, use the lowest effective doses and minimum treatment durations needed to achieve the desired clinical effect. If oxymorphone is initiated in a patient taking a skeletal muscle relaxant, use an initial dose of oxymorphone at one-third to one-half the usual dosage and titrate to clinical response. If the extended-release oxymorphone tablets are used concurrently with a skeletal muscle relaxant, use an initial dosage of 5 mg PO every 12 hours. If a skeletal muscle relaxant is prescribed for a patient taking an opiate agonist, use a lower initial dose of the skeletal muscle relaxant and titrate to clinical response. Educate patients about the risks and symptoms of respiratory depression and sedation. Belladonna; Opium: (Major) Concomitant use of oxymorphone with other CNS depressants may produce additive CNS depressant effects. Severe constipation, paralytic ileus, respiratory depression, hypotension, profound sedation, or coma may result from combination therapy. Opioids increase the tone and decrease the propulsive contractions of the smooth muscle of the gastrointestinal tract. Prolongation of the gastrointestinal transit time may be the mechanism of the constipating effect. Prior to concurrent use of oxymorphone in patients taking a CNS depressant, assess the level of tolerance to CNS depression that has developed, the duration of use, and the patient's overall response to treatment. Consider the patient's use of alcohol or illicit drugs. Oxymorphone should be used in reduced dosages if used concurrently with a CNS depressant; initiate oxymorphone at one-third to one-half the usual dosage in patients that are concurrently receiving another CNS depressant. Also consider a using a lower dose of the CNS depressant. Slowly titrate the dose as necessary for adequate pain relief and monitor for sedation or respiratory depression. Benazepril; Hydrochlorothiazide, HCTZ: (Moderate) Opiate agonists may potentiate orthostatic hypotension when used concurrently with thiazide diuretics. Bendroflumethiazide; Nadolol: (Moderate) Opiate agonists may potentiate orthostatic hypotension when used concurrently with thiazide diuretics. Benzonatate: (Moderate) The vagal effects and respiratory depression induced by opiate agonists may be increased by the use of benzonatate. Bethanechol: (Moderate) Bethanechol facilitates intestinal and bladder function via parasympathomimetic actions. Opiate agonists impair the peristaltic activity of the intestine. Thus, these drugs can antagonize the beneficial actions of bethanechol on GI motility. Bismuth Subcitrate Potassium; Metronidazole; Tetracycline: (Moderate) Additive constipation may be seen with concurrent use of opiate agonists and antidiarrheals. Opioids increase the tone and decrease the propulsive contractions of the smooth muscle of the gastrointestinal tract. Prolongation of the gastrointestinal transit time may be the mechanism of the constipating effect. Bismuth Subsalicylate: (Moderate) Additive constipation may be seen with concurrent use of opiate agonists and antidiarrheals. Opioids increase the tone and decrease the propulsive contractions of the smooth muscle of the gastrointestinal tract. Prolongation of the gastrointestinal transit time may be the mechanism of the constipating effect. Bismuth Subsalicylate; Metronidazole; Tetracycline: (Moderate) Additive constipation may be seen with concurrent use of opiate agonists and antidiarrheals. Opioids increase the tone and decrease the propulsive contractions of the smooth muscle of the gastrointestinal tract. Prolongation of the gastrointestinal transit time may be the mechanism of the constipating effect. Bisoprolol; Hydrochlorothiazide, HCTZ: (Moderate) Opiate agonists may potentiate orthostatic hypotension when used concurrently with thiazide diuretics. Brexpiprazole: (Moderate) Due to the CNS effects of brexpiprazole, caution is advisable when brexpiprazole is given in combination with other centrally-acting medications including opiate agonists. Brimonidine: (Moderate) Based on the sedative effects of brimonidine in individual patients, brimonidine administration has potential to enhance the CNS depressants effects of opiate agonists. Brimonidine; Brinzolamide: (Moderate) Based on the sedative effects of brimonidine in individual patients, brimonidine administration has potential to enhance the CNS depressants effects of opiate agonists. Brimonidine; Timolol: (Moderate) Based on the sedative effects of brimonidine in individual patients, brimonidine administration has potential to enhance the CNS depressants effects of opiate agonists. Brompheniramine: (Moderate) Concomitant use of oxymorphone with other CNS depressants may produce additive CNS depressant effects. Hypotension, profound sedation, coma, respiratory depression, or death may occur; examples of other CNS depressants include sedating H1-blockers. Prior to concurrent use of oxymorphone in patients taking a CNS depressant, assess the level of tolerance to CNS depression that has developed, the duration of use, and the patient's overall response to treatment. Consider the patient's use of alcohol or illicit drugs. If a CNS depressant is used concurrently with oxymorphone, a reduced dosage of oxymorphone (1/3 to 1/2 of the usual dose) and/or the CNS depressant is recommended. If the extended-release oxymorphone tablets are used concurrently with a CNS depressant, it is recommended to use an initial dosage of 5 mg PO every 12 hours. Monitor for sedation or respiratory depression. Brompheniramine; Carbetapentane; Phenylephrine: (Moderate) Concomitant use of oxymorphone with other CNS depressants may produce additive CNS depressant effects. Hypotension, profound sedation, coma, respiratory depression, or death may occur; examples of other CNS depressants include sedating H1-blockers. Prior to concurrent use of oxymorphone in patients taking a CNS depressant, assess the level of tolerance to CNS depression that has developed, the duration of use, and the patient's overall response to treatment. Consider the patient's use of alcohol or illicit drugs. If a CNS depressant is used concurrently with oxymorphone, a reduced dosage of oxymorphone (1/3 to 1/2 of the usual dose) and/or the CNS depressant is recommended. If the extended-release oxymorphone tablets are used concurrently with a CNS depressant, it is recommended to use an initial dosage of 5 mg PO every 12 hours. Monitor for sedation or respiratory depression. (Moderate) Drowsiness has been reported during administration of carbetapentane. An enhanced CNS depressant effect may occur when carbetapentane is combined with other CNS depressants including morphine. Brompheniramine; Dextromethorphan; Guaifenesin: (Moderate) Concomitant use of oxymorphone with other CNS depressants may produce additive CNS depressant effects. Hypotension, profound sedation, coma, respiratory depression, or death may occur; examples of other CNS depressants include sedating H1-blockers. Prior to concurrent use of oxymorphone in patients taking a CNS depressant, assess the level of tolerance to CNS depression that has developed, the duration of use, and the patient's overall response to treatment. Consider the patient's use of alcohol or illicit drugs. If a CNS depressant is used concurrently with oxymorphone, a reduced dosage of oxymorphone (1/3 to 1/2 of the usual dose) and/or the CNS depressant is recommended. If the extended-release oxymorphone tablets are used concurrently with a CNS depressant, it is recommended to use an initial dosage of 5 mg PO every 12 hours. Monitor for sedation or respiratory depression. Brompheniramine; Guaifenesin; Hydrocodone: (Major) Concomitant use of hydrocodone with other CNS depressants may lead to hypotension, profound sedation, coma, respiratory depression and death. Prior to concurrent use of hydrocodone in patients taking a CNS depressant, assess the level of tolerance to CNS depression that has developed, the duration of use, and the patient's overall response to treatment. Consider the patient's use of alcohol or illicit drugs. Hydrocodone should be used in reduced dosages if used concurrently with a CNS depressant; initiate hydrocodone at 20 to 30% of the usual dosage in patients that are concurrently receiving another CNS depressant. Also consider a using a lower dose of the CNS depressant. Monitor patients for sedation and respiratory depression. (Moderate) Concomitant use of oxymorphone with other CNS depressants may produce additive CNS depressant effects. Hypotension, profound sedation, coma, respiratory depression, or death may occur; examples of other CNS depressants include sedating H1-blockers. Prior to concurrent use of oxymorphone in patients taking a CNS depressant, assess the level of tolerance to CNS depression that has developed, the duration of use, and the patient's overall response to treatment. Consider the patient's use of alcohol or illicit drugs. If a CNS depressant is used concurrently with oxymorphone, a reduced dosage of oxymorphone (1/3 to 1/2 of the usual dose) and/or the CNS depressant is recommended. If the extended-release oxymorphone tablets are used concurrently with a CNS depressant, it is recommended to use an initial dosage of 5 mg PO every 12 hours. Monitor for sedation or respiratory depression. Brompheniramine; Hydrocodone; Pseudoephedrine: (Major) Concomitant use of hydrocodone with other CNS depressants may lead to hypotension, profound sedation, coma, respiratory depression and death. Prior to concurrent use of hydrocodone in patients taking a CNS depressant, assess the level of tolerance to CNS depression that has developed, the duration of use, and the patient's overall response to treatment. Consider the patient's use of alcohol or illicit drugs. Hydrocodone should be used in reduced dosages if used concurrently with a CNS depressant; initiate hydrocodone at 20 to 30% of the usual dosage in patients that are concurrently receiving another CNS depressant. Also consider a using a lower dose of the CNS depressant. Monitor patients for sedation and respiratory depression. (Moderate) Concomitant use of oxymorphone with other CNS depressants may produce additive CNS depressant effects. Hypotension, profound sedation, coma, respiratory depression, or death may occur; examples of other CNS depressants include sedating H1-blockers. Prior to concurrent use of oxymorphone in patients taking a CNS depressant, assess the level of tolerance to CNS depression that has developed, the duration of use, and the patient's overall response to treatment. Consider the patient's use of alcohol or illicit drugs. If a CNS depressant is used concurrently with oxymorphone, a reduced dosage of oxymorphone (1/3 to 1/2 of the usual dose) and/or the CNS depressant is recommended. If the extended-release oxymorphone tablets are used concurrently with a CNS depressant, it is recommended to use an initial dosage of 5 mg PO every 12 hours. Monitor for sedation or respiratory depression. Brompheniramine; Pseudoephedrine: (Moderate) Concomitant use of oxymorphone with other CNS depressants may produce additive CNS depressant effects. Hypotension, profound sedation, coma, respiratory depression, or death may occur; examples of other CNS depressants include sedating H1-blockers. Prior to concurrent use of oxymorphone in patients taking a CNS depressant, assess the level of tolerance to CNS depression that has developed, the duration of use, and the patient's overall response to treatment. Consider the patient's use of alcohol or illicit drugs. If a CNS depressant is used concurrently with oxymorphone, a reduced dosage of oxymorphone (1/3 to 1/2 of the usual dose) and/or the CNS depressant is recommended. If the extended-release oxymorphone tablets are used concurrently with a CNS depressant, it is recommended to use an initial dosage of 5 mg PO every 12 hours. Monitor for sedation or respiratory depression. Bupivacaine Liposomal: (Moderate) The use of these drugs together must be approached with caution. Although commonly used together for additive analgesic effects, the patient must be monitored for respiratory depression, hypotension, and excessive sedation due to additive effects on the CNS and blood pressure. In rare instances, serious morbidity and mortality has occurred. Limit the use of opiate pain medications with local anesthetics to only patients for whom alternative treatment options are inadequate. If concurrent use is necessary, use the lowest effective doses and minimum treatment durations needed to achieve the desired clinical effect. The use of the local anesthetic may allow for the use a lower initial dose of the opiate and then the doses can be titrated to proper clinical response. Educate patients about the risks and symptoms of respiratory depression and sedation. Bupivacaine: (Moderate) The use of these drugs together must be approached with caution. Although commonly used together for additive analgesic effects, the patient must be monitored for respiratory depression, hypotension, and excessive sedation due to additive effects on the CNS and blood pressure. In rare instances, serious morbidity and mortality has occurred. Limit the use of opiate pain medications with local anesthetics to only patients for whom alternative treatment options are inadequate. If concurrent use is necessary, use the lowest effective doses and minimum treatment durations needed to achieve the desired clinical effect. The use of the local anesthetic may allow for the use a lower initial dose of the opiate and then the doses can be titrated to proper clinical response. Educate patients about the risks and symptoms of respiratory depression and sedation. Bupivacaine; Lidocaine: (Moderate) The use of these drugs together must be approached with caution. Although commonly used together for additive analgesic effects, the patient must be monitored for respiratory depression, hypotension, and excessive sedation due to additive effects on the CNS and blood pressure. In rare instances, serious morbidity and mortality has occurred. Limit the use of opiate pain medications with local anesthetics to only patients for whom alternative treatment options are inadequate. If concurrent use is necessary, use the lowest effective doses and minimum treatment durations needed to achieve the desired clinical effect. The use of the local anesthetic may allow for the use a lower initial dose of the opiate and then the doses can be titrated to proper clinical response. Educate patients about the risks and symptoms of respiratory depression and sedation. Buprenorphine: (Major) Buprenorphine is a mixed opiate agonist/antagonist with strong affinity for the mu-receptor that may partially block the effects of full mu-receptor opiate agonists and reduce analgesic effects. In some cases of acute pain, trauma, or during surgical management, opiate-dependent patients receiving buprenorphine maintenance therapy may require concurrent treatment with opiate agonists, such as oxymorphone. In these cases, health care professionals must exercise caution in opiate agonist dose selection, as higher doses of an opiate agonist may be required to compete with buprenorphine at the mu-receptor. Management strategies may include adding a short-acting opiate agonist to achieve analgesia in the presence of buprenorphine, discontinuation of buprenorphine and use of an opiate agonist to avoid withdrawal and achieve analgesia, or conversion of buprenorphine to methadone while using additional opiate agonists if needed. Closely monitor patients for CNS or respiratory depression. When buprenorphine is used for analgesia, avoid co-use with opiate agonists. Buprenorphine may cause withdrawal symptoms in patients receiving chronic opiate agonists as well as possibly potentiate CNS, respiratory, and hypotensive effects. The additive or antagonistic effects are dependent upon the dose of the opiate agonist used; antagonistic effects are more common at low to moderate doses of the opiate agonist. Buprenorphine; Naloxone: (Major) Buprenorphine is a mixed opiate agonist/antagonist with strong affinity for the mu-receptor that may partially block the effects of full mu-receptor opiate agonists and reduce analgesic effects. In some cases of acute pain, trauma, or during surgical management, opiate-dependent patients receiving buprenorphine maintenance therapy may require concurrent treatment with opiate agonists, such as oxymorphone. In these cases, health care professionals must exercise caution in opiate agonist dose selection, as higher doses of an opiate agonist may be required to compete with buprenorphine at the mu-receptor. Management strategies may include adding a short-acting opiate agonist to achieve analgesia in the presence of buprenorphine, discontinuation of buprenorphine and use of an opiate agonist to avoid withdrawal and achieve analgesia, or conversion of buprenorphine to methadone while using additional opiate agonists if needed. Closely monitor patients for CNS or respiratory depression. When buprenorphine is used for analgesia, avoid co-use with opiate agonists. Buprenorphine may cause withdrawal symptoms in patients receiving chronic opiate agonists as well as possibly potentiate CNS, respiratory, and hypotensive effects. The additive or antagonistic effects are dependent upon the dose of the opiate agonist used; antagonistic effects are more common at low to moderate doses of the opiate agonist. (Major) The opiate antagonists naloxone and naltrexone are pharmacologic opposites of oxymorphone. These drugs can block the actions of oxymorphone and if administered to patients who are have received chronic oxymorphone therapy, can produce acute withdrawal and/or allow pain to recur. An opiate antagonist should not be administered in the absence of clinically significant respiratory or circulatory depression secondary to oxymorphone overdose. Bupropion: (Moderate) Excessive use of opioid agonists (e.g., opiate addiction) is associated with an increased seizure risk; seizures may be more likely to occur during concurrent use of bupropion in these patients since bupropion is associated with a dose-related risk of seizures. Bupropion; Naltrexone: (Major) When naltrexone is used as adjuvant treatment of opiate or alcohol dependence, use is contraindicated in patients currently receiving opiate agonists. Naltrexone will antagonize the therapeutic benefits of opiate agonists and will induce a withdrawal reaction in patients with physical dependence to opioids. Naltrexone should not be administered in the absence of clinically significant respiratory or circulatory depression secondary to oxymorphone overdose. Also, patients should be opiate-free for at least 7-10 days prior to initiating naltrexone therapy. If there is any question of opioid use in the past 7-10 days and the patient is not experiencing opioid withdrawal symptoms and/or the urine is negative for opioids, a naloxone challenge test needs to be performed. If a patient receives naltrexone, and an opiate agonist is needed for an emergency situation, large doses of opiate agonists may ultimately overwhelm naltrexone antagonism of opiate receptors. Immediately following administration of exogenous opiate agonists, the opiate plasma concentration may be sufficient to overcome naltrexone competitive blockade, but the patient may experience deeper and more prolonged respiratory depression and thus, may be in danger of respiratory arrest and circulatory collapse. Non-receptor mediated actions like facial swelling, itching, generalized erythema, or bronchoconstriction may occur presumably due to histamine release. A rapidly acting opiate agonist is preferred as the duration of respiratory depression will be shorter. Patients receiving naltrexone may also experience opiate side effects with low doses of opiate agonists. If the opiate agonist is taken in such a way that high concentrations remain in the body beyond the time naltrexone exerts its therapeutic effects, serious side effects may occur. (Moderate) Excessive use of opioid agonists (e.g., opiate addiction) is associated with an increased seizure risk; seizures may be more likely to occur during concurrent use of bupropion in these patients since bupropion is associated with a dose-related risk of seizures. Buspirone: (Moderate) Concomitant use of CNS depressants, such as buspirone, can potentiate the effects of oxymorphone, which may potentially lead to respiratory depression, CNS depression, sedation, or hypotensive responses. If concurrent use of codeine and buspirone is imperative, reduce the dose of one or both drugs. Butorphanol: (Major) Avoid the concomitant use of butorphanol and opiate agonists, such as oxymorphone. Butorphanol is a mixed opiate agonist/antagonist that may block the effects of opiate agonists and reduce analgesic effects. Butorphanol may cause withdrawal symptoms in patients receiving chronic opiate agonists. Concurrent use of butorphanol with other opiate agonists can cause additive CNS, respiratory, and hypotensive effects. The additive or antagonistic effects are dependent upon the dose of the opiate agonist used; antagonistic effects are more common at low to moderate doses of the opiate agonist. Candesartan; Hydrochlorothiazide, HCTZ: (Moderate) Opiate agonists may potentiate orthostatic hypotension when used concurrently with thiazide diuretics. Capsaicin; Metaxalone: (Major) Concomitant use of opiate agonists with skeletal muscle relaxants may cause respiratory depression, hypotension, profound sedation, and death. Limit the use of opiate pain medications with skeletal muscle relaxants to only patients for whom alternative treatment options are inadequate. If concurrent use is necessary, use the lowest effective doses and minimum treatment durations needed to achieve the desired clinical effect. If oxymorphone is initiated in a patient taking a skeletal muscle relaxant, use an initial dose of oxymorphone at one-third to one-half the usual dosage and titrate to clinical response. If the extended-release oxymorphone tablets are used concurrently with a skeletal muscle relaxant, use an initial dosage of 5 mg PO every 12 hours. If a skeletal muscle relaxant is prescribed for a patient taking an opiate agonist, use a lower initial dose of the skeletal muscle relaxant and titrate to clinical response. Educate patients about the risks and symptoms of respiratory depression and sedation. Captopril; Hydrochlorothiazide, HCTZ: (Moderate) Opiate agonists may potentiate orthostatic hypotension when used concurrently with thiazide diuretics. Carbamazepine: (Moderate) Inducers of CYP3A4 such as carbamazepine may induce the hepatic metabolism of opiate agonists, which may lead to opiate withdrawal or inadequate pain control. This interaction is most significant if the enzyme-inducing agent is added after opiate therapy has begun in patients who are opiate tolerant. Clinicians should be alert to changes in the effect of the opioid agonist. Opiate doses may need to be increased if carbamazepine is added. Conversely, doses may need to be decreased if carbamazepine is discontinued. Carbetapentane; Chlorpheniramine: (Moderate) Concomitant use of oxymorphone with other CNS depressants may produce additive CNS depressant effects. Hypotension, profound sedation, coma, respiratory depression, or death may occur; examples of other CNS depressants include sedating H1-blockers. Prior to concurrent use of oxymorphone in patients taking a CNS depressant, assess the level of tolerance to CNS depression that has developed, the duration of use, and the patient's overall response to treatment. Consider the patient's use of alcohol or illicit drugs. If a CNS depressant is used concurrently with oxymorphone, a reduced dosage of oxymorphone (1/3 to 1/2 of the usual dose) and/or the CNS depressant is recommended. If the extended-release oxymorphone tablets are used concurrently with a CNS depressant, it is recommended to use an initial dosage of 5 mg PO every 12 hours. Monitor for sedation or respiratory depression. (Moderate) Drowsiness has been reported during administration of carbetapentane. An enhanced CNS depressant effect may occur when carbetapentane is combined with other CNS depressants including morphine. Carbetapentane; Chlorpheniramine; Phenylephrine: (Moderate) Concomitant use of oxymorphone with other CNS depressants may produce additive CNS depressant effects. Hypotension, profound sedation, coma, respiratory depression, or death may occur; examples of other CNS depressants include sedating H1-blockers. Prior to concurrent use of oxymorphone in patients taking a CNS depressant, assess the level of tolerance to CNS depression that has developed, the duration of use, and the patient's overall response to treatment. Consider the patient's use of alcohol or illicit drugs. If a CNS depressant is used concurrently with oxymorphone, a reduced dosage of oxymorphone (1/3 to 1/2 of the usual dose) and/or the CNS depressant is recommended. If the extended-release oxymorphone tablets are used concurrently with a CNS depressant, it is recommended to use an initial dosage of 5 mg PO every 12 hours. Monitor for sedation or respiratory depression. (Moderate) Drowsiness has been reported during administration of carbetapentane. An enhanced CNS depressant effect may occur when carbetapentane is combined with other CNS depressants including morphine. Carbetapentane; Diphenhydramine; Phenylephrine: (Moderate) Concomitant use of oxymorphone with other CNS depressants may produce additive CNS depressant effects. Hypotension, profound sedation, coma, respiratory depression, or death may occur; examples of other CNS depressants include sedating H1-blockers. Prior to concurrent use of oxymorphone in patients taking a CNS depressant, assess the level of tolerance to CNS depression that has developed, the duration of use, and the patient's overall response to treatment. Consider the patient's use of alcohol or illicit drugs. If a CNS depressant is used concurrently with oxymorphone, a reduced dosage of oxymorphone (1/3 to 1/2 of the usual dose) and/or the CNS depressant is recommended. If the extended-release oxymorphone tablets are used concurrently with a CNS depressant, it is recommended to use an initial dosage of 5 mg PO every 12 hours. Monitor for sedation or respiratory depression. (Moderate) Drowsiness has been reported during administration of carbetapentane. An enhanced CNS depressant effect may occur when carbetapentane is combined with other CNS depressants including morphine. Carbetapentane; Guaifenesin: (Moderate) Drowsiness has been reported during administration of carbetapentane. An enhanced CNS depressant effect may occur when carbetapentane is combined with other CNS depressants including morphine. Carbetapentane; Guaifenesin; Phenylephrine: (Moderate) Drowsiness has been reported during administration of carbetapentane. An enhanced CNS depressant effect may occur when carbetapentane is combined with other CNS depressants including morphine. Carbetapentane; Phenylephrine: (Moderate) Drowsiness has been reported during administration of carbetapentane. An enhanced CNS depressant effect may occur when carbetapentane is combined with other CNS depressants including morphine. Carbetapentane; Phenylephrine; Pyrilamine: (Moderate) Concomitant use of oxymorphone with other CNS depressants may produce additive CNS depressant effects. Hypotension, profound sedation, coma, respiratory depression, or death may occur; examples of other CNS depressants include sedating H1-blockers. Prior to concurrent use of oxymorphone in patients taking a CNS depressant, assess the level of tolerance to CNS depression that has developed, the duration of use, and the patient's overall response to treatment. Consider the patient's use of alcohol or illicit drugs. If a CNS depressant is used concurrently with oxymorphone, a reduced dosage of oxymorphone (1/3 to 1/2 of the usual dose) and/or the CNS depressant is recommended. If the extended-release oxymorphone tablets are used concurrently with a CNS depressant, it is recommended to use an initial dosage of 5 mg PO every 12 hours. Monitor for sedation or respiratory depression. (Moderate) Drowsiness has been reported during administration of carbetapentane. An enhanced CNS depressant effect may occur when carbetapentane is combined with other CNS depressants including morphine. Carbetapentane; Pseudoephedrine: (Moderate) Drowsiness has been reported during administration of carbetapentane. An enhanced CNS depressant effect may occur when carbetapentane is combined with other CNS depressants including morphine. Carbetapentane; Pyrilamine: (Moderate) Concomitant use of oxymorphone with other CNS depressants may produce additive CNS depressant effects. Hypotension, profound sedation, coma, respiratory depression, or death may occur; examples of other CNS depressants include sedating H1-blockers. Prior to concurrent use of oxymorphone in patients taking a CNS depressant, assess the level of tolerance to CNS depression that has developed, the duration of use, and the patient's overall response to treatment. Consider the patient's use of alcohol or illicit drugs. If a CNS depressant is used concurrently with oxymorphone, a reduced dosage of oxymorphone (1/3 to 1/2 of the usual dose) and/or the CNS depressant is recommended. If the extended-release oxymorphone tablets are used concurrently with a CNS depressant, it is recommended to use an initial dosage of 5 mg PO every 12 hours. Monitor for sedation or respiratory depression. (Moderate) Drowsiness has been reported during administration of carbetapentane. An enhanced CNS depressant effect may occur when carbetapentane is combined with other CNS depressants including morphine. Carbidopa; Levodopa; Entacapone: (Moderate) Concomitant use of opiate agonists with other central nervous system (CNS) depressants such as COMT inhibitors can potentiate the effects of the opiate and may lead to additive CNS or respiratory depression, profound sedation, or coma. Prior to concurrent use of an opiate in patients taking a CNS depressant, assess the level of tolerance to CNS depression that has developed, the duration of use, and the patient's overall response to treatment. Consider the patient's use of alcohol or illicit drugs. If these agents are used together, a reduced dosage of the opiate and/or the CNS depressant is recommended. Carefully monitor the patient for hypotension, CNS depression, and respiratory depression. Carbon dioxide retention from opioid-induced respiratory depression can exacerbate the sedating effects of opioids. Carbinoxamine: (Moderate) Concomitant use of oxymorphone with other CNS depressants may produce additive CNS depressant effects. Hypotension, profound sedation, coma, respiratory depression, or death may occur; examples of other CNS depressants include sedating H1-blockers. Prior to concurrent use of oxymorphone in patients taking a CNS depressant, assess the level of tolerance to CNS depression that has developed, the duration of use, and the patient's overall response to treatment. Consider the patient's use of alcohol or illicit drugs. If a CNS depressant is used concurrently with oxymorphone, a reduced dosage of oxymorphone (1/3 to 1/2 of the usual dose) and/or the CNS depressant is recommended. If the extended-release oxymorphone tablets are used concurrently with a CNS depressant, it is recommended to use an initial dosage of 5 mg PO every 12 hours. Monitor for sedation or respiratory depression. Carbinoxamine; Dextromethorphan; Pseudoephedrine: (Moderate) Concomitant use of oxymorphone with other CNS depressants may produce additive CNS depressant effects. Hypotension, profound sedation, coma, respiratory depression, or death may occur; examples of other CNS depressants include sedating H1-blockers. Prior to concurrent use of oxymorphone in patients taking a CNS depressant, assess the level of tolerance to CNS depression that has developed, the duration of use, and the patient's overall response to treatment. Consider the patient's use of alcohol or illicit drugs. If a CNS depressant is used concurrently with oxymorphone, a reduced dosage of oxymorphone (1/3 to 1/2 of the usual dose) and/or the CNS depressant is recommended. If the extended-release oxymorphone tablets are used concurrently with a CNS depressant, it is recommended to use an initial dosage of 5 mg PO every 12 hours. Monitor for sedation or respiratory depression. Carbinoxamine; Hydrocodone; Phenylephrine: (Major) Concomitant use of hydrocodone with other CNS depressants may lead to hypotension, profound sedation, coma, respiratory depression and death. Prior to concurrent use of hydrocodone in patients taking a CNS depressant, assess the level of tolerance to CNS depression that has developed, the duration of use, and the patient's overall response to treatment. Consider the patient's use of alcohol or illicit drugs. Hydrocodone should be used in reduced dosages if used concurrently with a CNS depressant; initiate hydrocodone at 20 to 30% of the usual dosage in patients that are concurrently receiving another CNS depressant. Also consider a using a lower dose of the CNS depressant. Monitor patients for sedation and respiratory depression. (Moderate) Concomitant use of oxymorphone with other CNS depressants may produce additive CNS depressant effects. Hypotension, profound sedation, coma, respiratory depression, or death may occur; examples of other CNS depressants include sedating H1-blockers. Prior to concurrent use of oxymorphone in patients taking a CNS depressant, assess the level of tolerance to CNS depression that has developed, the duration of use, and the patient's overall response to treatment. Consider the patient's use of alcohol or illicit drugs. If a CNS depressant is used concurrently with oxymorphone, a reduced dosage of oxymorphone (1/3 to 1/2 of the usual dose) and/or the CNS depressant is recommended. If the extended-release oxymorphone tablets are used concurrently with a CNS depressant, it is recommended to use an initial dosage of 5 mg PO every 12 hours. Monitor for sedation or respiratory depression. Carbinoxamine; Hydrocodone; Pseudoephedrine: (Major) Concomitant use of hydrocodone with other CNS depressants may lead to hypotension, profound sedation, coma, respiratory depression and death. Prior to concurrent use of hydrocodone in patients taking a CNS depressant, assess the level of tolerance to CNS depression that has developed, the duration of use, and the patient's overall response to treatment. Consider the patient's use of alcohol or illicit drugs. Hydrocodone should be used in reduced dosages if used concurrently with a CNS depressant; initiate hydrocodone at 20 to 30% of the usual dosage in patients that are concurrently receiving another CNS depressant. Also consider a using a lower dose of the CNS depressant. Monitor patients for sedation and respiratory depression. (Moderate) Concomitant use of oxymorphone with other CNS depressants may produce additive CNS depressant effects. Hypotension, profound sedation, coma, respiratory depression, or death may occur; examples of other CNS depressants include sedating H1-blockers. Prior to concurrent use of oxymorphone in patients taking a CNS depressant, assess the level of tolerance to CNS depression that has developed, the duration of use, and the patient's overall response to treatment. Consider the patient's use of alcohol or illicit drugs. If a CNS depressant is used concurrently with oxymorphone, a reduced dosage of oxymorphone (1/3 to 1/2 of the usual dose) and/or the CNS depressant is recommended. If the extended-release oxymorphone tablets are used concurrently with a CNS depressant, it is recommended to use an initial dosage of 5 mg PO every 12 hours. Monitor for sedation or respiratory depression. Carbinoxamine; Phenylephrine: (Moderate) Concomitant use of oxymorphone with other CNS depressants may produce additive CNS depressant effects. Hypotension, profound sedation, coma, respiratory depression, or death may occur; examples of other CNS depressants include sedating H1-blockers. Prior to concurrent use of oxymorphone in patients taking a CNS depressant, assess the level of tolerance to CNS depression that has developed, the duration of use, and the patient's overall response to treatment. Consider the patient's use of alcohol or illicit drugs. If a CNS depressant is used concurrently with oxymorphone, a reduced dosage of oxymorphone (1/3 to 1/2 of the usual dose) and/or the CNS depressant is recommended. If the extended-release oxymorphone tablets are used concurrently with a CNS depressant, it is recommended to use an initial dosage of 5 mg PO every 12 hours. Monitor for sedation or respiratory depression. Carbinoxamine; Pseudoephedrine: (Moderate) Concomitant use of oxymorphone with other CNS depressants may produce additive CNS depressant effects. Hypotension, profound sedation, coma, respiratory depression, or death may occur; examples of other CNS depressants include sedating H1-blockers. Prior to concurrent use of oxymorphone in patients taking a CNS depressant, assess the level of tolerance to CNS depression that has developed, the duration of use, and the patient's overall response to treatment. Consider the patient's use of alcohol or illicit drugs. If a CNS depressant is used concurrently with oxymorphone, a reduced dosage of oxymorphone (1/3 to 1/2 of the usual dose) and/or the CNS depressant is recommended. If the extended-release oxymorphone tablets are used concurrently with a CNS depressant, it is recommended to use an initial dosage of 5 mg PO every 12 hours. Monitor for sedation or respiratory depression. Cariprazine: (Moderate) Due to the CNS effects of cariprazine, caution is advisable when cariprazine is given in combination with other centrally-acting medications including opiate agonists. Carisoprodol: (Major) Concomitant use of opiate agonists with skeletal muscle relaxants may cause respiratory depression, hypotension, profound sedation, and death. Limit the use of opiate pain medications with skeletal muscle relaxants to only patients for whom alternative treatment options are inadequate. If concurrent use is necessary, use the lowest effective doses and minimum treatment durations needed to achieve the desired clinical effect. If oxymorphone is initiated in a patient taking a skeletal muscle relaxant, use an initial dose of oxymorphone at one-third to one-half the usual dosage and titrate to clinical response. If the extended-release oxymorphone tablets are used concurrently with a skeletal muscle relaxant, use an initial dosage of 5 mg PO every 12 hours. If a skeletal muscle relaxant is prescribed for a patient taking an opiate agonist, use a lower initial dose of the skeletal muscle relaxant and titrate to clinical response. Educate patients about the risks and symptoms of respiratory depression and sedation. Cetirizine: (Moderate) Additive drowsiness may occur if cetirizine or levocetirizine is administered with other drugs that depress the CNS, including opiate agonists. Cetirizine; Pseudoephedrine: (Moderate) Additive drowsiness may occur if cetirizine or levocetirizine is administered with other drugs that depress the CNS, including opiate agonists. Chlophedianol; Dexchlorpheniramine; Pseudoephedrine: (Moderate) Concomitant use of oxymorphone with other CNS depressants may produce additive CNS depressant effects. Hypotension, profound sedation, coma, respiratory depression, or death may occur; examples of other CNS depressants include sedating H1-blockers. Prior to concurrent use of oxymorphone in patients taking a CNS depressant, assess the level of tolerance to CNS depression that has developed, the duration of use, and the patient's overall response to treatment. Consider the patient's use of alcohol or illicit drugs. If a CNS depressant is used concurrently with oxymorphone, a reduced dosage of oxymorphone (1/3 to 1/2 of the usual dose) and/or the CNS depressant is recommended. If the extended-release oxymorphone tablets are used concurrently with a CNS depressant, it is recommended to use an initial dosage of 5 mg PO every 12 hours. Monitor for sedation or respiratory depression. Chlorcyclizine: (Moderate) Concomitant use of oxymorphone with other CNS depressants may produce additive CNS depressant effects. Hypotension, profound sedation, coma, respiratory depression, or death may occur; examples of other CNS depressants include sedating H1-blockers. Prior to concurrent use of oxymorphone in patients taking a CNS depressant, assess the level of tolerance to CNS depression that has developed, the duration of use, and the patient's overall response to treatment. Consider the patient's use of alcohol or illicit drugs. If a CNS depressant is used concurrently with oxymorphone, a reduced dosage of oxymorphone (1/3 to 1/2 of the usual dose) and/or the CNS depressant is recommended. If the extended-release oxymorphone tablets are used concurrently with a CNS depressant, it is recommended to use an initial dosage of 5 mg PO every 12 hours. Monitor for sedation or respiratory depression. Chlordiazepoxide: (Major) Concomitant use of opiate agonists with benzodiazepines may cause respiratory depression, hypotension, profound sedation, and death. Limit the use of opiate pain medications with benzodiazepines to only patients for whom alternative treatment options are inadequate. If concurrent use is necessary, use the lowest effective doses and minimum treatment durations needed to achieve the desired clinical effect. If oxymorphone is initiated in a patient taking a benzodiazepine, use an initial dose of oxymorphone at 1/3 to 1/2 the usual dosage and titrate to clinical response. If the extended-release oxymorphone tablets are used concurrently with a CNS depressant, use an initial dosage of 5 mg PO every 12 hours. If a benzodiazepine is prescribed for an indication other than epilepsy in a patient taking an opiate agonist, use a lower initial dose of the benzodiazepine and titrate to clinical response. Educate patients about the risks and symptoms of respiratory depression and sedation. Chlordiazepoxide; Clidinium: (Major) Concomitant use of opiate agonists with benzodiazepines may cause respiratory depression, hypotension, profound sedation, and death. Limit the use of opiate pain medications with benzodiazepines to only patients for whom alternative treatment options are inadequate. If concurrent use is necessary, use the lowest effective doses and minimum treatment durations needed to achieve the desired clinical effect. If oxymorphone is initiated in a patient taking a benzodiazepine, use an initial dose of oxymorphone at 1/3 to 1/2 the usual dosage and titrate to clinical response. If the extended-release oxymorphone tablets are used concurrently with a CNS depressant, use an initial dosage of 5 mg PO every 12 hours. If a benzodiazepine is prescribed for an indication other than epilepsy in a patient taking an opiate agonist, use a lower initial dose of the benzodiazepine and titrate to clinical response. Educate patients about the risks and symptoms of respiratory depression and sedation. Chloroprocaine: (Minor) Due to the CNS depression potential of all local anesthetics, they should be used with caution with other agents that can cause respiratory depression, such as opiate agonists. Chlorothiazide: (Moderate) Opiate agonists may potentiate orthostatic hypotension when used concurrently with thiazide diuretics. Chlorpheniramine: (Moderate) Concomitant use of oxymorphone with other CNS depressants may produce additive CNS depressant effects. Hypotension, profound sedation, coma, respiratory depression, or death may occur; examples of other CNS depressants include sedating H1-blockers. Prior to concurrent use of oxymorphone in patients taking a CNS depressant, assess the level of tolerance to CNS depression that has developed, the duration of use, and the patient's overall response to treatment. Consider the patient's use of alcohol or illicit drugs. If a CNS depressant is used concurrently with oxymorphone, a reduced dosage of oxymorphone (1/3 to 1/2 of the usual dose) and/or the CNS depressant is recommended. If the extended-release oxymorphone tablets are used concurrently with a CNS depressant, it is recommended to use an initial dosage of 5 mg PO every 12 hours. Monitor for sedation or respiratory depression. Chlorpheniramine; Codeine: (Major) Concomitant use of oxymorphone with other CNS depressants may produce additive CNS depressant effects. Respiratory depression, hypotension, profound sedation, or coma may result from combination therapy. Prior to concurrent use of oxymorphone in patients taking a CNS depressant, assess the level of tolerance to CNS depression that has developed, the duration of use, and the patient's overall response to treatment. Consider the patient's use of alcohol or illicit drugs. Oxymorphone should be used in reduced dosages if used concurrently with a CNS depressant; initiate oxymorphone at one-third to one-half the usual dosage in patients that are concurrently receiving another CNS depressant. Also consider a using a lower dose of the CNS depressant. Slowly titrate the dose as necessary for adequate pain relief and monitor for sedation or respiratory depression. (Moderate) Concomitant use of oxymorphone with other CNS depressants may produce additive CNS depressant effects. Hypotension, profound sedation, coma, respiratory depression, or death may occur; examples of other CNS depressants include sedating H1-blockers. Prior to concurrent use of oxymorphone in patients taking a CNS depressant, assess the level of tolerance to CNS depression that has developed, the duration of use, and the patient's overall response to treatment. Consider the patient's use of alcohol or illicit drugs. If a CNS depressant is used concurrently with oxymorphone, a reduced dosage of oxymorphone (1/3 to 1/2 of the usual dose) and/or the CNS depressant is recommended. If the extended-release oxymorphone tablets are used concurrently with a CNS depressant, it is recommended to use an initial dosage of 5 mg PO every 12 hours. Monitor for sedation or respiratory depression. Chlorpheniramine; Dextromethorphan: (Moderate) Concomitant use of oxymorphone with other CNS depressants may produce additive CNS depressant effects. Hypotension, profound sedation, coma, respiratory depression, or death may occur; examples of other CNS depressants include sedating H1-blockers. Prior to concurrent use of oxymorphone in patients taking a CNS depressant, assess the level of tolerance to CNS depression that has developed, the duration of use, and the patient's overall response to treatment. Consider the patient's use of alcohol or illicit drugs. If a CNS depressant is used concurrently with oxymorphone, a reduced dosage of oxymorphone (1/3 to 1/2 of the usual dose) and/or the CNS depressant is recommended. If the extended-release oxymorphone tablets are used concurrently with a CNS depressant, it is recommended to use an initial dosage of 5 mg PO every 12 hours. Monitor for sedation or respiratory depression. Chlorpheniramine; Dextromethorphan; Phenylephrine: (Moderate) Concomitant use of oxymorphone with other CNS depressants may produce additive CNS depressant effects. Hypotension, profound sedation, coma, respiratory depression, or death may occur; examples of other CNS depressants include sedating H1-blockers. Prior to concurrent use of oxymorphone in patients taking a CNS depressant, assess the level of tolerance to CNS depression that has developed, the duration of use, and the patient's overall response to treatment. Consider the patient's use of alcohol or illicit drugs. If a CNS depressant is used concurrently with oxymorphone, a reduced dosage of oxymorphone (1/3 to 1/2 of the usual dose) and/or the CNS depressant is recommended. If the extended-release oxymorphone tablets are used concurrently with a CNS depressant, it is recommended to use an initial dosage of 5 mg PO every 12 hours. Monitor for sedation or respiratory depression. Chlorpheniramine; Dihydrocodeine; Phenylephrine: (Major) Concomitant use of oxymorphone with other CNS depressants may produce additive CNS depressant effects. Respiratory depression, hypotension, profound sedation, or coma may result from combination therapy. Prior to concurrent use of oxymorphone in patients taking a CNS depressant, assess the level of tolerance to CNS depression that has developed, the duration of use, and the patient's overall response to treatment. Consider the patient's use of alcohol or illicit drugs. Oxymorphone should be used in reduced dosages if used concurrently with a CNS depressant; initiate oxymorphone at one-third to one-half the usual dosage in patients that are concurrently receiving another CNS depressant. Also consider a using a lower dose of the CNS depressant. Slowly titrate the dose as necessary for adequate pain relief and monitor for sedation or respiratory depression. (Moderate) Concomitant use of oxymorphone with other CNS depressants may produce additive CNS depressant effects. Hypotension, profound sedation, coma, respiratory depression, or death may occur; examples of other CNS depressants include sedating H1-blockers. Prior to concurrent use of oxymorphone in patients taking a CNS depressant, assess the level of tolerance to CNS depression that has developed, the duration of use, and the patient's overall response to treatment. Consider the patient's use of alcohol or illicit drugs. If a CNS depressant is used concurrently with oxymorphone, a reduced dosage of oxymorphone (1/3 to 1/2 of the usual dose) and/or the CNS depressant is recommended. If the extended-release oxymorphone tablets are used concurrently with a CNS depressant, it is recommended to use an initial dosage of 5 mg PO every 12 hours. Monitor for sedation or respiratory depression. Chlorpheniramine; Dihydrocodeine; Pseudoephedrine: (Major) Concomitant use of oxymorphone with other CNS depressants may produce additive CNS depressant effects. Respiratory depression, hypotension, profound sedation, or coma may result from combination therapy. Prior to concurrent use of oxymorphone in patients taking a CNS depressant, assess the level of tolerance to CNS depression that has developed, the duration of use, and the patient's overall response to treatment. Consider the patient's use of alcohol or illicit drugs. Oxymorphone should be used in reduced dosages if used concurrently with a CNS depressant; initiate oxymorphone at one-third to one-half the usual dosage in patients that are concurrently receiving another CNS depressant. Also consider a using a lower dose of the CNS depressant. Slowly titrate the dose as necessary for adequate pain relief and monitor for sedation or respiratory depression. (Moderate) Concomitant use of oxymorphone with other CNS depressants may produce additive CNS depressant effects. Hypotension, profound sedation, coma, respiratory depression, or death may occur; examples of other CNS depressants include sedating H1-blockers. Prior to concurrent use of oxymorphone in patients taking a CNS depressant, assess the level of tolerance to CNS depression that has developed, the duration of use, and the patient's overall response to treatment. Consider the patient's use of alcohol or illicit drugs. If a CNS depressant is used concurrently with oxymorphone, a reduced dosage of oxymorphone (1/3 to 1/2 of the usual dose) and/or the CNS depressant is recommended. If the extended-release oxymorphone tablets are used concurrently with a CNS depressant, it is recommended to use an initial dosage of 5 mg PO every 12 hours. Monitor for sedation or respiratory depression. Chlorpheniramine; Guaifenesin; Hydrocodone; Pseudoephedrine: (Major) Concomitant use of hydrocodone with other CNS depressants may lead to hypotension, profound sedation, coma, respiratory depression and death. Prior to concurrent use of hydrocodone in patients taking a CNS depressant, assess the level of tolerance to CNS depression that has developed, the duration of use, and the patient's overall response to treatment. Consider the patient's use of alcohol or illicit drugs. Hydrocodone should be used in reduced dosages if used concurrently with a CNS depressant; initiate hydrocodone at 20 to 30% of the usual dosage in patients that are concurrently receiving another CNS depressant. Also consider a using a lower dose of the CNS depressant. Monitor patients for sedation and respiratory depression. (Moderate) Concomitant use of oxymorphone with other CNS depressants may produce additive CNS depressant effects. Hypotension, profound sedation, coma, respiratory depression, or death may occur; examples of other CNS depressants include sedating H1-blockers. Prior to concurrent use of oxymorphone in patients taking a CNS depressant, assess the level of tolerance to CNS depression that has developed, the duration of use, and the patient's overall response to treatment. Consider the patient's use of alcohol or illicit drugs. If a CNS depressant is used concurrently with oxymorphone, a reduced dosage of oxymorphone (1/3 to 1/2 of the usual dose) and/or the CNS depressant is recommended. If the extended-release oxymorphone tablets are used concurrently with a CNS depressant, it is recommended to use an initial dosage of 5 mg PO every 12 hours. Monitor for sedation or respiratory depression. Chlorpheniramine; Hydrocodone: (Major) Concomitant use of hydrocodone with other CNS depressants may lead to hypotension, profound sedation, coma, respiratory depression and death. Prior to concurrent use of hydrocodone in patients taking a CNS depressant, assess the level of tolerance to CNS depression that has developed, the duration of use, and the patient's overall response to treatment. Consider the patient's use of alcohol or illicit drugs. Hydrocodone should be used in reduced dosages if used concurrently with a CNS depressant; initiate hydrocodone at 20 to 30% of the usual dosage in patients that are concurrently receiving another CNS depressant. Also consider a using a lower dose of the CNS depressant. Monitor patients for sedation and respiratory depression. (Moderate) Concomitant use of oxymorphone with other CNS depressants may produce additive CNS depressant effects. Hypotension, profound sedation, coma, respiratory depression, or death may occur; examples of other CNS depressants include sedating H1-blockers. Prior to concurrent use of oxymorphone in patients taking a CNS depressant, assess the level of tolerance to CNS depression that has developed, the duration of use, and the patient's overall response to treatment. Consider the patient's use of alcohol or illicit drugs. If a CNS depressant is used concurrently with oxymorphone, a reduced dosage of oxymorphone (1/3 to 1/2 of the usual dose) and/or the CNS depressant is recommended. If the extended-release oxymorphone tablets are used concurrently with a CNS depressant, it is recommended to use an initial dosage of 5 mg PO every 12 hours. Monitor for sedation or respiratory depression. Chlorpheniramine; Hydrocodone; Phenylephrine: (Major) Concomitant use of hydrocodone with other CNS depressants may lead to hypotension, profound sedation, coma, respiratory depression and death. Prior to concurrent use of hydrocodone in patients taking a CNS depressant, assess the level of tolerance to CNS depression that has developed, the duration of use, and the patient's overall response to treatment. Consider the patient's use of alcohol or illicit drugs. Hydrocodone should be used in reduced dosages if used concurrently with a CNS depressant; initiate hydrocodone at 20 to 30% of the usual dosage in patients that are concurrently receiving another CNS depressant. Also consider a using a lower dose of the CNS depressant. Monitor patients for sedation and respiratory depression. (Moderate) Concomitant use of oxymorphone with other CNS depressants may produce additive CNS depressant effects. Hypotension, profound sedation, coma, respiratory depression, or death may occur; examples of other CNS depressants include sedating H1-blockers. Prior to concurrent use of oxymorphone in patients taking a CNS depressant, assess the level of tolerance to CNS depression that has developed, the duration of use, and the patient's overall response to treatment. Consider the patient's use of alcohol or illicit drugs. If a CNS depressant is used concurrently with oxymorphone, a reduced dosage of oxymorphone (1/3 to 1/2 of the usual dose) and/or the CNS depressant is recommended. If the extended-release oxymorphone tablets are used concurrently with a CNS depressant, it is recommended to use an initial dosage of 5 mg PO every 12 hours. Monitor for sedation or respiratory depression. Chlorpheniramine; Hydrocodone; Pseudoephedrine: (Major) Concomitant use of hydrocodone with other CNS depressants may lead to hypotension, profound sedation, coma, respiratory depression and death. Prior to concurrent use of hydrocodone in patients taking a CNS depressant, assess the level of tolerance to CNS depression that has developed, the duration of use, and the patient's overall response to treatment. Consider the patient's use of alcohol or illicit drugs. Hydrocodone should be used in reduced dosages if used concurrently with a CNS depressant; initiate hydrocodone at 20 to 30% of the usual dosage in patients that are concurrently receiving another CNS depressant. Also consider a using a lower dose of the CNS depressant. Monitor patients for sedation and respiratory depression. (Moderate) Concomitant use of oxymorphone with other CNS depressants may produce additive CNS depressant effects. Hypotension, profound sedation, coma, respiratory depression, or death may occur; examples of other CNS depressants include sedating H1-blockers. Prior to concurrent use of oxymorphone in patients taking a CNS depressant, assess the level of tolerance to CNS depression that has developed, the duration of use, and the patient's overall response to treatment. Consider the patient's use of alcohol or illicit drugs. If a CNS depressant is used concurrently with oxymorphone, a reduced dosage of oxymorphone (1/3 to 1/2 of the usual dose) and/or the CNS depressant is recommended. If the extended-release oxymorphone tablets are used concurrently with a CNS depressant, it is recommended to use an initial dosage of 5 mg PO every 12 hours. Monitor for sedation or respiratory depression. Chlorpheniramine; Phenylephrine: (Moderate) Concomitant use of oxymorphone with other CNS depressants may produce additive CNS depressant effects. Hypotension, profound sedation, coma, respiratory depression, or death may occur; examples of other CNS depressants include sedating H1-blockers. Prior to concurrent use of oxymorphone in patients taking a CNS depressant, assess the level of tolerance to CNS depression that has developed, the duration of use, and the patient's overall response to treatment. Consider the patient's use of alcohol or illicit drugs. If a CNS depressant is used concurrently with oxymorphone, a reduced dosage of oxymorphone (1/3 to 1/2 of the usual dose) and/or the CNS depressant is recommended. If the extended-release oxymorphone tablets are used concurrently with a CNS depressant, it is recommended to use an initial dosage of 5 mg PO every 12 hours. Monitor for sedation or respiratory depression. Chlorpheniramine; Pseudoephedrine: (Moderate) Concomitant use of oxymorphone with other CNS depressants may produce additive CNS depressant effects. Hypotension, profound sedation, coma, respiratory depression, or death may occur; examples of other CNS depressants include sedating H1-blockers. Prior to concurrent use of oxymorphone in patients taking a CNS depressant, assess the level of tolerance to CNS depression that has developed, the duration of use, and the patient's overall response to treatment. Consider the patient's use of alcohol or illicit drugs. If a CNS depressant is used concurrently with oxymorphone, a reduced dosage of oxymorphone (1/3 to 1/2 of the usual dose) and/or the CNS depressant is recommended. If the extended-release oxymorphone tablets are used concurrently with a CNS depressant, it is recommended to use an initial dosage of 5 mg PO every 12 hours. Monitor for sedation or respiratory depression. Chlorpromazine: (Moderate) Concomitant use of oxymorphone with other CNS depressants may produce additive CNS depressant effects. Hypotension, profound sedation, coma, respiratory depression, or death may occur. Severe hypotension may occur if oxymorphone is administered to a patient taking a CNS depressant that inhibits blood pressure maintenance such as phenothiazines. Prior to concurrent use of oxymorphone in patients taking a CNS depressant, assess the level of tolerance to CNS depression that has developed, the duration of use, and the patient's overall response to treatment. Consider the patient's use of alcohol or illicit drugs. If a CNS depressant is used concurrently with oxymorphone, a reduced dosage of oxymorphone (1/3 to 1/2 of the usual dose) and/or the CNS depressant is recommended. If the extended-release oxymorphone tablets are used concurrently with a CNS depressant, it is recommended to use an initial dosage of 5 mg PO every 12 hours. Monitor for sedation or respiratory depression. Chlorthalidone: (Moderate) Opiate agonists may potentiate orthostatic hypotension when used concurrently with thiazide diuretics. Chlorthalidone; Clonidine: (Moderate) Clonidine has CNS depressive effects and can potentiate the actions of other CNS depressants including opiate agonists. (Moderate) Opiate agonists may potentiate orthostatic hypotension when used concurrently with thiazide diuretics. Chlorzoxazone: (Major) Concomitant use of opiate agonists with skeletal muscle relaxants may cause respiratory depression, hypotension, profound sedation, and death. Limit the use of opiate pain medications with skeletal muscle relaxants to only patients for whom alternative treatment options are inadequate. If concurrent use is necessary, use the lowest effective doses and minimum treatment durations needed to achieve the desired clinical effect. If oxymorphone is initiated in a patient taking a skeletal muscle relaxant, use an initial dose of oxymorphone at one-third to one-half the usual dosage and titrate to clinical response. If the extended-release oxymorphone tablets are used concurrently with a skeletal muscle relaxant, use an initial dosage of 5 mg PO every 12 hours. If a skeletal muscle relaxant is prescribed for a patient taking an opiate agonist, use a lower initial dose of the skeletal muscle relaxant and titrate to clinical response. Educate patients about the risks and symptoms of respiratory depression and sedation. Cimetidine: (Minor) When used in high doses (i.e., > 600 mg/day), cimetidine has decreased the metabolism of certain opiate agonists leading to increased opiate levels and opiate toxicity in some patients. Monitor patients for increased respiratory and CNS depression during coadministration. Cisatracurium: (Moderate) Additive CNS depression may occur if opiate agonists are used concomitantly with other CNS depressants, including neuromuscular blockers. Clemastine: (Moderate) Concomitant use of oxymorphone with other CNS depressants may produce additive CNS depressant effects. Hypotension, profound sedation, coma, respiratory depression, or death may occur; examples of other CNS depressants include sedating H1-blockers. Prior to concurrent use of oxymorphone in patients taking a CNS depressant, assess the level of tolerance to CNS depression that has developed, the duration of use, and the patient's overall response to treatment. Consider the patient's use of alcohol or illicit drugs. If a CNS depressant is used concurrently with oxymorphone, a reduced dosage of oxymorphone (1/3 to 1/2 of the usual dose) and/or the CNS depressant is recommended. If the extended-release oxymorphone tablets are used concurrently with a CNS depressant, it is recommended to use an initial dosage of 5 mg PO every 12 hours. Monitor for sedation or respiratory depression. Clobazam: (Major) Concomitant use of opiate agonists with benzodiazepines may cause respiratory depression, hypotension, profound sedation, and death. Limit the use of opiate pain medications with benzodiazepines to only patients for whom alternative treatment options are inadequate. If concurrent use is necessary, use the lowest effective doses and minimum treatment durations needed to achieve the desired clinical effect. If oxymorphone is initiated in a patient taking a benzodiazepine, use an initial dose of oxymorphone at 1/3 to 1/2 the usual dosage and titrate to clinical response. If the extended-release oxymorphone tablets are used concurrently with a CNS depressant, use an initial dosage of 5 mg PO every 12 hours. If a benzodiazepine is prescribed for an indication other than epilepsy in a patient taking an opiate agonist, use a lower initial dose of the benzodiazepine and titrate to clinical response. Educate patients about the risks and symptoms of respiratory depression and sedation. Clomipramine: (Moderate) Concomitant use of oxymorphone with other CNS depressants, such as tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs), may produce additive CNS depressant effects. Hypotension, profound sedation, respiratory depression, or coma may occur. Orthostasis may occur in ambulatory patients. Both oxymorphone and TCAs may produce constipation. Prior to concurrent use of oxymorphone in patients taking a TCA, assess the level of tolerance to CNS depression that has developed, the duration of use, and the patient's overall response to treatment. Consider the patient's use of alcohol or illicit drugs. If a TCA is used concurrently with oxymorphone, a reduced initial dosage of oxymorphone (one-third to one-half of the usual dose) and/or the CNS depressant is recommended. If the extended-release oxymorphone tablets are used concurrently with a CNS depressant, it is recommended to use an initial dosage of 5 mg PO every 12 hours. Monitor for sedation, respiratory depression, and for reduced GI motility. Clonazepam: (Major) Concomitant use of opiate agonists with benzodiazepines may cause respiratory depression, hypotension, profound sedation, and death. Limit the use of opiate pain medications with benzodiazepines to only patients for whom alternative treatment options are inadequate. If concurrent use is necessary, use the lowest effective doses and minimum treatment durations needed to achieve the desired clinical effect. If oxymorphone is initiated in a patient taking a benzodiazepine, use an initial dose of oxymorphone at 1/3 to 1/2 the usual dosage and titrate to clinical response. If the extended-release oxymorphone tablets are used concurrently with a CNS depressant, use an initial dosage of 5 mg PO every 12 hours. If a benzodiazepine is prescribed for an indication other than epilepsy in a patient taking an opiate agonist, use a lower initial dose of the benzodiazepine and titrate to clinical response. Educate patients about the risks and symptoms of respiratory depression and sedation. Clonidine: (Moderate) Clonidine has CNS depressive effects and can potentiate the actions of other CNS depressants including opiate agonists. Clorazepate: (Major) Concomitant use of opiate agonists with benzodiazepines may cause respiratory depression, hypotension, profound sedation, and death. Limit the use of opiate pain medications with benzodiazepines to only patients for whom alternative treatment options are inadequate. If concurrent use is necessary, use the lowest effective doses and minimum treatment durations needed to achieve the desired clinical effect. If oxymorphone is initiated in a patient taking a benzodiazepine, use an initial dose of oxymorphone at 1/3 to 1/2 the usual dosage and titrate to clinical response. If the extended-release oxymorphone tablets are used concurrently with a CNS depressant, use an initial dosage of 5 mg PO every 12 hours. If a benzodiazepine is prescribed for an indication other than epilepsy in a patient taking an opiate agonist, use a lower initial dose of the benzodiazepine and titrate to clinical response. Educate patients about the risks and symptoms of respiratory depression and sedation. Clozapine: (Moderate) Concomitant use of oxymorphone with other CNS depressants may produce additive CNS depressant effects. Hypotension, profound sedation, coma, respiratory depression, or death may occur; examples of other CNS depressants include clozapine. Prior to concurrent use of oxymorphone in patients taking a CNS depressant, assess the level of tolerance to CNS depression that has developed, the duration of use, and the patient's overall response to treatment. Consider the patient's use of alcohol or illicit drugs. If a CNS depressant is used concurrently with oxymorphone, a reduced dosage of oxymorphone (1/3 to 1/2 of the usual dose) and/or the CNS depressant is recommended. If the extended-release oxymorphone tablets are used concurrently with a CNS depressant, it is recommended to use an initial dosage of 5 mg PO every 12 hours. Monitor for sedation or respiratory depression. Codeine: (Major) Concomitant use of oxymorphone with other CNS depressants may produce additive CNS depressant effects. Respiratory depression, hypotension, profound sedation, or coma may result from combination therapy. Prior to concurrent use of oxymorphone in patients taking a CNS depressant, assess the level of tolerance to CNS depression that has developed, the duration of use, and the patient's overall response to treatment. Consider the patient's use of alcohol or illicit drugs. Oxymorphone should be used in reduced dosages if used concurrently with a CNS depressant; initiate oxymorphone at one-third to one-half the usual dosage in patients that are concurrently receiving another CNS depressant. Also consider a using a lower dose of the CNS depressant. Slowly titrate the dose as necessary for adequate pain relief and monitor for sedation or respiratory depression. Codeine; Guaifenesin: (Major) Concomitant use of oxymorphone with other CNS depressants may produce additive CNS depressant effects. Respiratory depression, hypotension, profound sedation, or coma may result from combination therapy. Prior to concurrent use of oxymorphone in patients taking a CNS depressant, assess the level of tolerance to CNS depression that has developed, the duration of use, and the patient's overall response to treatment. Consider the patient's use of alcohol or illicit drugs. Oxymorphone should be used in reduced dosages if used concurrently with a CNS depressant; initiate oxymorphone at one-third to one-half the usual dosage in patients that are concurrently receiving another CNS depressant. Also consider a using a lower dose of the CNS depressant. Slowly titrate the dose as necessary for adequate pain relief and monitor for sedation or respiratory depression. Codeine; Phenylephrine; Promethazine: (Major) Concomitant use of oxymorphone with other CNS depressants may produce additive CNS depressant effects. Respiratory depression, hypotension, profound sedation, or coma may result from combination therapy. Prior to concurrent use of oxymorphone in patients taking a CNS depressant, assess the level of tolerance to CNS depression that has developed, the duration of use, and the patient's overall response to treatment. Consider the patient's use of alcohol or illicit drugs. Oxymorphone should be used in reduced dosages if used concurrently with a CNS depressant; initiate oxymorphone at one-third to one-half the usual dosage in patients that are concurrently receiving another CNS depressant. Also consider a using a lower dose of the CNS depressant. Slowly titrate the dose as necessary for adequate pain relief and monitor for sedation or respiratory depression. Codeine; Promethazine: (Major) Concomitant use of oxymorphone with other CNS depressants may produce additive CNS depressant effects. Respiratory depression, hypotension, profound sedation, or coma may result from combination therapy. Prior to concurrent use of oxymorphone in patients taking a CNS depressant, assess the level of tolerance to CNS depression that has developed, the duration of use, and the patient's overall response to treatment. Consider the patient's use of alcohol or illicit drugs. Oxymorphone should be used in reduced dosages if used concurrently with a CNS depressant; initiate oxymorphone at one-third to one-half the usual dosage in patients that are concurrently receiving another CNS depressant. Also consider a using a lower dose of the CNS depressant. Slowly titrate the dose as necessary for adequate pain relief and monitor for sedation or respiratory depression. COMT inhibitors: (Moderate) Concomitant use of opiate agonists with other central nervous system (CNS) depressants such as COMT inhibitors can potentiate the effects of the opiate and may lead to additive CNS or respiratory depression, profound sedation, or coma. Prior to concurrent use of an opiate in patients taking a CNS depressant, assess the level of tolerance to CNS depression that has developed, the duration of use, and the patient's overall response to treatment. Consider the patient's use of alcohol or illicit drugs. If these agents are used together, a reduced dosage of the opiate and/or the CNS depressant is recommended. Carefully monitor the patient for hypotension, CNS depression, and respiratory depression. Carbon dioxide retention from opioid-induced respiratory depression can exacerbate the sedating effects of opioids. Crofelemer: (Moderate) Pharmacodynamic interactions between crofelemer and opiate agonists are theoretically possible. Crofelemer does not affect GI motility mechanisms, but does have antidiarrheal effects. Patients taking medications that decrease GI motility, such as opiate agonists, may be at greater risk for serious complications from crofelemer, such as constipation with chronic use. Use caution and monitor GI symptoms during coadministration. Cyclizine: (Moderate) Concomitant use of oxymorphone with other CNS depressants may produce additive CNS depressant effects. Hypotension, profound sedation, coma, respiratory depression, or death may occur; examples of other CNS depressants include sedating H1-blockers. Prior to concurrent use of oxymorphone in patients taking a CNS depressant, assess the level of tolerance to CNS depression that has developed, the duration of use, and the patient's overall response to treatment. Consider the patient's use of alcohol or illicit drugs. If a CNS depressant is used concurrently with oxymorphone, a reduced dosage of oxymorphone (1/3 to 1/2 of the usual dose) and/or the CNS depressant is recommended. If the extended-release oxymorphone tablets are used concurrently with a CNS depressant, it is recommended to use an initial dosage of 5 mg PO every 12 hours. Monitor for sedation or respiratory depression. Cyclobenzaprine: (Major) Concomitant use of opiate agonists with skeletal muscle relaxants may cause respiratory depression, hypotension, profound sedation, and death. Limit the use of opiate pain medications with skeletal muscle relaxants to only patients for whom alternative treatment options are inadequate. If concurrent use is necessary, use the lowest effective doses and minimum treatment durations needed to achieve the desired clinical effect. If oxymorphone is initiated in a patient taking a skeletal muscle relaxant, use an initial dose of oxymorphone at one-third to one-half the usual dosage and titrate to clinical response. If the extended-release oxymorphone tablets are used concurrently with a skeletal muscle relaxant, use an initial dosage of 5 mg PO every 12 hours. If a skeletal muscle relaxant is prescribed for a patient taking an opiate agonist, use a lower initial dose of the skeletal muscle relaxant and titrate to clinical response. Educate patients about the risks and symptoms of respiratory depression and sedation. Cyproheptadine: (Moderate) Concomitant use of oxymorphone with other CNS depressants may produce additive CNS depressant effects. Hypotension, profound sedation, coma, respiratory depression, or death may occur; examples of other CNS depressants include sedating H1-blockers. Prior to concurrent use of oxymorphone in patients taking a CNS depressant, assess the level of tolerance to CNS depression that has developed, the duration of use, and the patient's overall response to treatment. Consider the patient's use of alcohol or illicit drugs. If a CNS depressant is used concurrently with oxymorphone, a reduced dosage of oxymorphone (1/3 to 1/2 of the usual dose) and/or the CNS depressant is recommended. If the extended-release oxymorphone tablets are used concurrently with a CNS depressant, it is recommended to use an initial dosage of 5 mg PO every 12 hours. Monitor for sedation or respiratory depression. Dantrolene: (Major) Concomitant use of opiate agonists with skeletal muscle relaxants may cause respiratory depression, hypotension, profound sedation, and death. Limit the use of opiate pain medications with skeletal muscle relaxants to only patients for whom alternative treatment options are inadequate. If concurrent use is necessary, use the lowest effective doses and minimum treatment durations needed to achieve the desired clinical effect. If oxymorphone is initiated in a patient taking a skeletal muscle relaxant, use an initial dose of oxymorphone at one-third to one-half the usual dosage and titrate to clinical response. If the extended-release oxymorphone tablets are used concurrently with a skeletal muscle relaxant, use an initial dosage of 5 mg PO every 12 hours. If a skeletal muscle relaxant is prescribed for a patient taking an opiate agonist, use a lower initial dose of the skeletal muscle relaxant and titrate to clinical response. Educate patients about the risks and symptoms of respiratory depression and sedation. Darifenacin: (Moderate) Monitor patients for signs of urinary retention or reduced gastric motility when darifenacin, an anticholinergic drug for overactive bladder. is used with opiate agonists. The concomitant use of these drugs together may increase risk of urinary retention and/or severe constipation, which may lead to paralytic ileus. Opiates increase the tone and decrease the propulsive contractions of the smooth muscle of the gastrointestinal tract. Prolongation of the gastrointestinal transit time may be the mechanism of the constipating effect. Both agents may also cause drowsiness or blurred vision, and patients should use care in driving or performing other hazardous tasks until the effects of the drugs are known. Dasabuvir; Ombitasvir; Paritaprevir; Ritonavir: (Moderate) Ritonavir is an inhibitor of the cytochrome P450 3A4 isoenzyme and may decrease the metabolism of oxymorphone if the two drugs are coadministered. Delavirdine: (Major) Delavirdine is a potent inhibitor of CYP3A4 and an inhibitor (in vitro) of CYP2D6, CYP2C9, and CYP2C19. Therefore, delavirdine may alter the response to various opiate agonists. Increased concentrations of the CYP substrates, such as oxycodone may be noted. Delavirdine may decrease the efficacy of codeine-containing analgesics by inhibiting the conversion of codeine to morphine via CYP2D6. Delavirdine may also inhibit the metabolism of methadone, requiring a decrease in methadone doses. Desflurane: (Moderate) Concurrent use with opiate agonists can decrease the minimum alveolar concentration (MAC) of desflurane needed to produce anesthesia. Desipramine: (Moderate) Concomitant use of oxymorphone with other CNS depressants, such as tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs), may produce additive CNS depressant effects. Hypotension, profound sedation, respiratory depression, or coma may occur. Orthostasis may occur in ambulatory patients. Both oxymorphone and TCAs may produce constipation. Prior to concurrent use of oxymorphone in patients taking a TCA, assess the level of tolerance to CNS depression that has developed, the duration of use, and the patient's overall response to treatment. Consider the patient's use of alcohol or illicit drugs. If a TCA is used concurrently with oxymorphone, a reduced initial dosage of oxymorphone (one-third to one-half of the usual dose) and/or the CNS depressant is recommended. If the extended-release oxymorphone tablets are used concurrently with a CNS depressant, it is recommended to use an initial dosage of 5 mg PO every 12 hours. Monitor for sedation, respiratory depression, and for reduced GI motility. Desmopressin: (Major) Additive hyponatremic effects may be seen in patients treated with desmopressin and drugs associated with water intoxication, hyponatremia, or SIADH including opiate agonists. Use combination with caution, and monitor patients for signs and symptoms of hyponatremia. Deutetrabenazine: (Major) Concomitant use of opiate agonists with deutetrabenazine may cause respiratory depression, hypotension, profound sedation, and death. Limit the use of opiate pain medications with deutetrabenazine to only patients for whom alternative treatment options are inadequate. If concurrent use is necessary, use the lowest effective doses and minimum treatment durations needed to achieve the desired clinical effect. If oxymorphone is initiated in a patient taking deutetrabenazine, use an initial dose of oxymorphone at 1/3 to 1/2 the usual dosage and titrate to clinical response. If the extended-release oxymorphone tablets are used concurrently with a CNS depressant, it is recommended to use an initial dosage of 5 mg PO every 12 hours. If deutetrabenazine is prescribed for a patient taking an opiate agonist, use a lower initial dose of deutetrabenazine and titrate to clinical response. Educate patients about the risks and symptoms of respiratory depression and sedation. Dexchlorpheniramine: (Moderate) Concomitant use of oxymorphone with other CNS depressants may produce additive CNS depressant effects. Hypotension, profound sedation, coma, respiratory depression, or death may occur; examples of other CNS depressants include sedating H1-blockers. Prior to concurrent use of oxymorphone in patients taking a CNS depressant, assess the level of tolerance to CNS depression that has developed, the duration of use, and the patient's overall response to treatment. Consider the patient's use of alcohol or illicit drugs. If a CNS depressant is used concurrently with oxymorphone, a reduced dosage of oxymorphone (1/3 to 1/2 of the usual dose) and/or the CNS depressant is recommended. If the extended-release oxymorphone tablets are used concurrently with a CNS depressant, it is recommended to use an initial dosage of 5 mg PO every 12 hours. Monitor for sedation or respiratory depression. Dexchlorpheniramine; Dextromethorphan; Pseudoephedrine: (Moderate) Concomitant use of oxymorphone with other CNS depressants may produce additive CNS depressant effects. Hypotension, profound sedation, coma, respiratory depression, or death may occur; examples of other CNS depressants include sedating H1-blockers. Prior to concurrent use of oxymorphone in patients taking a CNS depressant, assess the level of tolerance to CNS depression that has developed, the duration of use, and the patient's overall response to treatment. Consider the patient's use of alcohol or illicit drugs. If a CNS depressant is used concurrently with oxymorphone, a reduced dosage of oxymorphone (1/3 to 1/2 of the usual dose) and/or the CNS depressant is recommended. If the extended-release oxymorphone tablets are used concurrently with a CNS depressant, it is recommended to use an initial dosage of 5 mg PO every 12 hours. Monitor for sedation or respiratory depression. Dexmedetomidine: (Moderate) Co-administration of dexmedetomidine with opiate agonists likely to lead to an enhancement of CNS depression. Dexpanthenol: (Moderate) Use caution when using dexpanthenol with drugs that decrease gastrointestinal motility, such as opiate agonists, as it may decrease the effectiveness of dexpanthenol. Dextromethorphan; Diphenhydramine; Phenylephrine: (Moderate) Concomitant use of oxymorphone with other CNS depressants may produce additive CNS depressant effects. Hypotension, profound sedation, coma, respiratory depression, or death may occur; examples of other CNS depressants include sedating H1-blockers. Prior to concurrent use of oxymorphone in patients taking a CNS depressant, assess the level of tolerance to CNS depression that has developed, the duration of use, and the patient's overall response to treatment. Consider the patient's use of alcohol or illicit drugs. If a CNS depressant is used concurrently with oxymorphone, a reduced dosage of oxymorphone (1/3 to 1/2 of the usual dose) and/or the CNS depressant is recommended. If the extended-release oxymorphone tablets are used concurrently with a CNS depressant, it is recommended to use an initial dosage of 5 mg PO every 12 hours. Monitor for sedation or respiratory depression. Diazepam: (Major) Concomitant use of opiate agonists with benzodiazepines may cause respiratory depression, hypotension, profound sedation, and death. Limit the use of opiate pain medications with benzodiazepines to only patients for whom alternative treatment options are inadequate. If concurrent use is necessary, use the lowest effective doses and minimum treatment durations needed to achieve the desired clinical effect. If oxymorphone is initiated in a patient taking a benzodiazepine, use an initial dose of oxymorphone at 1/3 to 1/2 the usual dosage and titrate to clinical response. If the extended-release oxymorphone tablets are used concurrently with a CNS depressant, use an initial dosage of 5 mg PO every 12 hours. If a benzodiazepine is prescribed for an indication other than epilepsy in a patient taking an opiate agonist, use a lower initial dose of the benzodiazepine and titrate to clinical response. If parental diazepam is used with an opiate agonist, reduce the opiate agonist dosage by at least 1/3. Educate patients about the risks and symptoms of respiratory depression and sedation. Dihydrocodeine; Guaifenesin; Pseudoephedrine: (Major) Concomitant use of oxymorphone with other CNS depressants may produce additive CNS depressant effects. Respiratory depression, hypotension, profound sedation, or coma may result from combination therapy. Prior to concurrent use of oxymorphone in patients taking a CNS depressant, assess the level of tolerance to CNS depression that has developed, the duration of use, and the patient's overall response to treatment. Consider the patient's use of alcohol or illicit drugs. Oxymorphone should be used in reduced dosages if used concurrently with a CNS depressant; initiate oxymorphone at one-third to one-half the usual dosage in patients that are concurrently receiving another CNS depressant. Also consider a using a lower dose of the CNS depressant. Slowly titrate the dose as necessary for adequate pain relief and monitor for sedation or respiratory depression. Dimenhydrinate: (Moderate) Concomitant use of oxymorphone with other CNS depressants may produce additive CNS depressant effects. Hypotension, profound sedation, coma, respiratory depression, or death may occur; examples of other CNS depressants include sedating H1-blockers. Prior to concurrent use of oxymorphone in patients taking a CNS depressant, assess the level of tolerance to CNS depression that has developed, the duration of use, and the patient's overall response to treatment. Consider the patient's use of alcohol or illicit drugs. If a CNS depressant is used concurrently with oxymorphone, a reduced dosage of oxymorphone (1/3 to 1/2 of the usual dose) and/or the CNS depressant is recommended. If the extended-release oxymorphone tablets are used concurrently with a CNS depressant, it is recommended to use an initial dosage of 5 mg PO every 12 hours. Monitor for sedation or respiratory depression. Diphenhydramine: (Moderate) Concomitant use of oxymorphone with other CNS depressants may produce additive CNS depressant effects. Hypotension, profound sedation, coma, respiratory depression, or death may occur; examples of other CNS depressants include sedating H1-blockers. Prior to concurrent use of oxymorphone in patients taking a CNS depressant, assess the level of tolerance to CNS depression that has developed, the duration of use, and the patient's overall response to treatment. Consider the patient's use of alcohol or illicit drugs. If a CNS depressant is used concurrently with oxymorphone, a reduced dosage of oxymorphone (1/3 to 1/2 of the usual dose) and/or the CNS depressant is recommended. If the extended-release oxymorphone tablets are used concurrently with a CNS depressant, it is recommended to use an initial dosage of 5 mg PO every 12 hours. Monitor for sedation or respiratory depression. Diphenhydramine; Hydrocodone; Phenylephrine: (Major) Concomitant use of hydrocodone with other CNS depressants may lead to hypotension, profound sedation, coma, respiratory depression and death. Prior to concurrent use of hydrocodone in patients taking a CNS depressant, assess the level of tolerance to CNS depression that has developed, the duration of use, and the patient's overall response to treatment. Consider the patient's use of alcohol or illicit drugs. Hydrocodone should be used in reduced dosages if used concurrently with a CNS depressant; initiate hydrocodone at 20 to 30% of the usual dosage in patients that are concurrently receiving another CNS depressant. Also consider a using a lower dose of the CNS depressant. Monitor patients for sedation and respiratory depression. (Moderate) Concomitant use of oxymorphone with other CNS depressants may produce additive CNS depressant effects. Hypotension, profound sedation, coma, respiratory depression, or death may occur; examples of other CNS depressants include sedating H1-blockers. Prior to concurrent use of oxymorphone in patients taking a CNS depressant, assess the level of tolerance to CNS depression that has developed, the duration of use, and the patient's overall response to treatment. Consider the patient's use of alcohol or illicit drugs. If a CNS depressant is used concurrently with oxymorphone, a reduced dosage of oxymorphone (1/3 to 1/2 of the usual dose) and/or the CNS depressant is recommended. If the extended-release oxymorphone tablets are used concurrently with a CNS depressant, it is recommended to use an initial dosage of 5 mg PO every 12 hours. Monitor for sedation or respiratory depression. Diphenhydramine; Ibuprofen: (Moderate) Concomitant use of oxymorphone with other CNS depressants may produce additive CNS depressant effects. Hypotension, profound sedation, coma, respiratory depression, or death may occur; examples of other CNS depressants include sedating H1-blockers. Prior to concurrent use of oxymorphone in patients taking a CNS depressant, assess the level of tolerance to CNS depression that has developed, the duration of use, and the patient's overall response to treatment. Consider the patient's use of alcohol or illicit drugs. If a CNS depressant is used concurrently with oxymorphone, a reduced dosage of oxymorphone (1/3 to 1/2 of the usual dose) and/or the CNS depressant is recommended. If the extended-release oxymorphone tablets are used concurrently with a CNS depressant, it is recommended to use an initial dosage of 5 mg PO every 12 hours. Monitor for sedation or respiratory depression. Diphenhydramine; Naproxen: (Moderate) Concomitant use of oxymorphone with other CNS depressants may produce additive CNS depressant effects. Hypotension, profound sedation, coma, respiratory depression, or death may occur; examples of other CNS depressants include sedating H1-blockers. Prior to concurrent use of oxymorphone in patients taking a CNS depressant, assess the level of tolerance to CNS depression that has developed, the duration of use, and the patient's overall response to treatment. Consider the patient's use of alcohol or illicit drugs. If a CNS depressant is used concurrently with oxymorphone, a reduced dosage of oxymorphone (1/3 to 1/2 of the usual dose) and/or the CNS depressant is recommended. If the extended-release oxymorphone tablets are used concurrently with a CNS depressant, it is recommended to use an initial dosage of 5 mg PO every 12 hours. Monitor for sedation or respiratory depression. Diphenhydramine; Phenylephrine: (Moderate) Concomitant use of oxymorphone with other CNS depressants may produce additive CNS depressant effects. Hypotension, profound sedation, coma, respiratory depression, or death may occur; examples of other CNS depressants include sedating H1-blockers. Prior to concurrent use of oxymorphone in patients taking a CNS depressant, assess the level of tolerance to CNS depression that has developed, the duration of use, and the patient's overall response to treatment. Consider the patient's use of alcohol or illicit drugs. If a CNS depressant is used concurrently with oxymorphone, a reduced dosage of oxymorphone (1/3 to 1/2 of the usual dose) and/or the CNS depressant is recommended. If the extended-release oxymorphone tablets are used concurrently with a CNS depressant, it is recommended to use an initial dosage of 5 mg PO every 12 hours. Monitor for sedation or respiratory depression. Doxacurium: (Moderate) Additive CNS depression may occur if opiate agonists are used concomitantly with other CNS depressants, including neuromuscular blockers. Doxepin: (Moderate) Concomitant use of oxymorphone with other CNS depressants, such as tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs), may produce additive CNS depressant effects. Hypotension, profound sedation, respiratory depression, or coma may occur. Orthostasis may occur in ambulatory patients. Both oxymorphone and TCAs may produce constipation. Prior to concurrent use of oxymorphone in patients taking a TCA, assess the level of tolerance to CNS depression that has developed, the duration of use, and the patient's overall response to treatment. Consider the patient's use of alcohol or illicit drugs. If a TCA is used concurrently with oxymorphone, a reduced initial dosage of oxymorphone (one-third to one-half of the usual dose) and/or the CNS depressant is recommended. If the extended-release oxymorphone tablets are used concurrently with a CNS depressant, it is recommended to use an initial dosage of 5 mg PO every 12 hours. Monitor for sedation, respiratory depression, and for reduced GI motility. Doxylamine: (Moderate) Concomitant use of oxymorphone with other CNS depressants may produce additive CNS depressant effects. Hypotension, profound sedation, coma, respiratory depression, or death may occur; examples of other CNS depressants include sedating H1-blockers. Prior to concurrent use of oxymorphone in patients taking a CNS depressant, assess the level of tolerance to CNS depression that has developed, the duration of use, and the patient's overall response to treatment. Consider the patient's use of alcohol or illicit drugs. If a CNS depressant is used concurrently with oxymorphone, a reduced dosage of oxymorphone (1/3 to 1/2 of the usual dose) and/or the CNS depressant is recommended. If the extended-release oxymorphone tablets are used concurrently with a CNS depressant, it is recommended to use an initial dosage of 5 mg PO every 12 hours. Monitor for sedation or respiratory depression. Doxylamine; Pyridoxine: (Moderate) Concomitant use of oxymorphone with other CNS depressants may produce additive CNS depressant effects. Hypotension, profound sedation, coma, respiratory depression, or death may occur; examples of other CNS depressants include sedating H1-blockers. Prior to concurrent use of oxymorphone in patients taking a CNS depressant, assess the level of tolerance to CNS depression that has developed, the duration of use, and the patient's overall response to treatment. Consider the patient's use of alcohol or illicit drugs. If a CNS depressant is used concurrently with oxymorphone, a reduced dosage of oxymorphone (1/3 to 1/2 of the usual dose) and/or the CNS depressant is recommended. If the extended-release oxymorphone tablets are used concurrently with a CNS depressant, it is recommended to use an initial dosage of 5 mg PO every 12 hours. Monitor for sedation or respiratory depression. Dronabinol, THC: (Moderate) Concomitant use of opiate agonists and other CNS depressants such as dronabinol, THC may result in respiratory depression, CNS depression, and/or hypotension. Prior to concurrent use of opiate agonists in patients taking a CNS depressant, assess the level of tolerance to CNS depression that has developed, the duration of use, and the patient's overall response to treatment. Consider the patient's use of alcohol or illicit drugs. When concomitant treatment is necessary, reduce the dose of 1 or both drugs. When levorphanol is used with dronabinol, reduce the initial levorphanol dose by approximately 50% or more. Droperidol: (Major) Concomitant use of oxymorphone with other CNS depressants may produce additive CNS depressant effects. Hypotension, profound sedation, coma, respiratory depression, or death may occur; examples of other CNS depressants include droperidol. Prior to concurrent use of oxymorphone in patients taking a CNS depressant, assess the level of tolerance to CNS depression that has developed, the duration of use, and the patient's overall response to treatment. Consider the patient's use of alcohol or illicit drugs. Ethanol abuse and the use of benzodiazepines and intravenous opiates are risk factors for the development of prolonged QT syndrome in patients receiving droperidol. If droperidol is used concurrently with oxymorphone, a reduced dosage of oxymorphone (1/3 to 1/2 of the usual dose) and/or the CNS depressant is recommended. If the extended-release oxymorphone tablets are used concurrently with a CNS depressant, it is recommended to use an initial dosage of 5 mg PO every 12 hours. Monitor for sedation or respiratory depression. Eltrombopag: (Moderate) Eltrombopag is a UDP-glucuronyltransferase inhibitor. Opiate agonists are a substrate of UDP-glucuronyltransferases. The significance or effect of this interaction is not known; however, elevated concentrations of the opiate agonist is possible. Monitor patients for adverse reactions if eltrombopage is administered with an opiate agonist. Eluxadoline: (Major) Avoid use of eluxadoline with medications that may cause constipation, such as opiate agonists. Opioids increase the tone and decrease the propulsive contractions of the smooth muscle within the gastrointestinal tract. Prolongation of the gastrointestinal transit time may be the mechanism of the constipating effect. In addition, the CYP3A4 metabolism of some opiate agonists may be inhibited by eluxadoline. Although the CYP3A4 inhibitory effects of eluxadoline have not been definitively established, the manufacturer recommends caution when administering eluxadoline concurrently with CYP3A4 substrates that have a narrow therapeutic index, such as fentanyl and alfentanil. Closely monitor for increased side effects if these drugs are administered together. Discontinue use of eluxadoline in patients who develop severe constipation lasting more than 4 days. Enalapril; Hydrochlorothiazide, HCTZ: (Moderate) Opiate agonists may potentiate orthostatic hypotension when used concurrently with thiazide diuretics. Enflurane: (Moderate) The concomitant use of oxymorphone with other CNS depressants may produce additive CNS depressant effects. Respiratory depression, hypotension, profound sedation, or coma may result from combination therapy. Severe hypotension may occur if oxymorphone is administered to a patient taking a CNS depressant that inhibits blood pressure maintenance such as general anesthetics. Prior to concurrent use of oxymorphone in patients taking a CNS depressant, assess the level of tolerance to CNS depression that has developed, the duration of use, and the patient's overall response to treatment. Consider the patient's use of alcohol or illicit drugs. Oxymorphone should be used in reduced dosages if used concurrently with a CNS depressant; initiate oxymorphone at one-third to one-half the usual dosage in patients that are concurrently receiving another CNS depressant. Also consider a using a lower dose of the CNS depressant. Slowly titrate the dose as necessary for adequate pain relief and monitor for sedation or respiratory depression. Entacapone: (Moderate) Concomitant use of opiate agonists with other central nervous system (CNS) depressants such as COMT inhibitors can potentiate the effects of the opiate and may lead to additive CNS or respiratory depression, profound sedation, or coma. Prior to concurrent use of an opiate in patients taking a CNS depressant, assess the level of tolerance to CNS depression that has developed, the duration of use, and the patient's overall response to treatment. Consider the patient's use of alcohol or illicit drugs. If these agents are used together, a reduced dosage of the opiate and/or the CNS depressant is recommended. Carefully monitor the patient for hypotension, CNS depression, and respiratory depression. Carbon dioxide retention from opioid-induced respiratory depression can exacerbate the sedating effects of opioids. Eprosartan; Hydrochlorothiazide, HCTZ: (Moderate) Opiate agonists may potentiate orthostatic hypotension when used concurrently with thiazide diuretics. Escitalopram: (Moderate) Escitalopram modestly inhibits metabolism via the CYP2D6 pathway. Theoretically, this can result in increased concentrations of drugs metabolized via the same pathway, including oxymorphone. Estazolam: (Major) Concomitant use of opiate agonists with benzodiazepines may cause respiratory depression, hypotension, profound sedation, and death. Limit the use of opiate pain medications with benzodiazepines to only patients for whom alternative treatment options are inadequate. If concurrent use is necessary, use the lowest effective doses and minimum treatment durations needed to achieve the desired clinical effect. If oxymorphone is initiated in a patient taking a benzodiazepine, use an initial dose of oxymorphone at 1/3 to 1/2 the usual dosage and titrate to clinical response. If the extended-release oxymorphone tablets are used concurrently with a CNS depressant, use an initial dosage of 5 mg PO every 12 hours. If a benzodiazepine is prescribed for an indication other than epilepsy in a patient taking an opiate agonist, use a lower initial dose of the benzodiazepine and titrate to clinical response. Educate patients about the risks and symptoms of respiratory depression and sedation. Eszopiclone: (Moderate) Concomitant use of oxymorphone with eszopiclone may produce additive CNS depressant effects. Hypotension, profound sedation, coma, respiratory depression, or death may occur. In addition, the risk of next-day psychomotor impairment is increased during co-administration of eszopiclone and other CNS depressants, which may decrease the ability to perform tasks requiring full mental alertness such as driving. Prior to concurrent use, assess the level of tolerance to CNS depression that has developed, the duration of use, and the patient's overall response to treatment. Consider the patient's use of alcohol or illicit drugs. If eszopiclone is used concurrently with oxymorphone, a reduced dosage of oxymorphone (1/3 to 1/2 of the usual dose) and/or eszopiclone is recommended. If the extended-release oxymorphone tablets are used concurrently with a CNS depressant, it is recommended to use an initial dosage of 5 mg PO every 12 hours. Monitor for sedation or respiratory depression. Ethanol: (Major) Patients who receive oxymorphone should be advised to avoid drinking ethanol (alcohol) or taking prescription or nonprescription medications containing alcohol. Concomitant use of oxymorphone with other central nervous system (CNS) depressants, such as ethanol, can potentiate the effects of oxymorphone and may lead to additive CNS or respiratory depression. This may cause respiratory depression, hypotension, profound sedation, and death. In addition, ingestion of extended-release oral oxymorphone with ethanol results in significantly higher peak plasma oxymorphone concentrations; the extended-release mechanism can be compromised. A potentially fatal overdose of oxymorphone may occur. The Cmax of oxymorphone increased on average by 70% and up to 270% in individual patients when taken with 240 mL of 40% ethanol. Increased exposure was also seen if the medicine was taken with 20% alcohol; the Cmax increased on average by 31% and up to 260% in individual patients. Following the concomitant administration of 240 mL of 4% ethanol, the Cmax increased 7% on average and by as much as 110% for individual subjects. The effect on Cmax was highly variable. The oxymorphone mean AUC was 13% higher after coadministration of 240 mL of 40% alcohol but was essentially unaffected in subjects following the coadministration of 240 mL of 20% or 4% ethanol. Ethotoin: (Moderate) Additive CNS depression could be seen with the combined use of the hydantoin and opiate agonists. Methadone is a primary substrate for the CYP3A4 isoenzyme. Serum concentrations of methadone may decrease due to CYP3A4 induction by phenytoin; withdrawal symptoms may occur. Fentanyl: (Major) Concomitant use of fentanyl with oxymorphone may cause respiratory depression, hypotension, profound sedation, and death. Limit the use of fentanyl with oxymorphone to only patients for whom alternative treatment options are inadequate. Oxymorphone and fentanyl should be used in reduced dosages if used concurrently. Initiate oxymorphone at 1/3 to 1/2 the usual dosage. Titrate to clinical response. Educate patients about the risks and symptoms of respiratory depression and sedation. Fesoterodine: (Moderate) Monitor patients for signs of urinary retention or reduced gastric motility when fesoterodine, an anticholinergic drug for overactive bladder. is used with opiate agonists. The concomitant use of these drugs together may increase risk of urinary retention and/or severe constipation, which may lead to paralytic ileus. Opiates increase the tone and decrease the propulsive contractions of the smooth muscle of the gastrointestinal tract. Prolongation of the gastrointestinal transit time may be the mechanism of the constipating effect. Both agents may also cause drowsiness or blurred vision, and patients should use care in driving or performing other hazardous tasks until the effects of the drugs are known. Flibanserin: (Moderate) The concomitant use of flibanserin with CNS depressants, such as opiate agonists, may increase the risk of CNS depression (e.g., dizziness, somnolence) compared to the use of flibanserin alone. Patients should avoid activities requiring full alertness (e.g., operating machinery or driving) until at least 6 hours after each dose and until they know how flibanserin affects them. Fluoxetine: (Major) Fluoxetine may inhibit the metabolism of oxymorphone. Clinicians should be alert for an exaggerated opiate response if oxymorphone is given with fluoxetine. Fluoxetine; Olanzapine: (Major) Fluoxetine may inhibit the metabolism of oxymorphone. Clinicians should be alert for an exaggerated opiate response if oxymorphone is given with fluoxetine. (Moderate) Concomitant use of oxymorphone with other CNS depressants may produce additive CNS depressant effects. Hypotension, profound sedation, coma, respiratory depression, or death may occur; examples of other CNS depressants include olanzapine. Prior to concurrent use of oxymorphone in patients taking a CNS depressant, assess the level of tolerance to CNS depression that has developed, the duration of use, and the patient's overall response to treatment. Consider the patient's use of alcohol or illicit drugs. If a CNS depressant is used concurrently with oxymorphone, a reduced dosage of oxymorphone (1/3 to 1/2 of the usual dose) and/or the CNS depressant is recommended. If the extended-release oxymorphone tablets are used concurrently with a CNS depressant, it is recommended to use an initial dosage of 5 mg PO every 12 hours. Monitor for sedation or respiratory depression. Fluphenazine: (Moderate) Concomitant use of oxymorphone with other CNS depressants may produce additive CNS depressant effects. Hypotension, profound sedation, coma, respiratory depression, or death may occur. Severe hypotension may occur if oxymorphone is administered to a patient taking a CNS depressant that inhibits blood pressure maintenance such as phenothiazines. Prior to concurrent use of oxymorphone in patients taking a CNS depressant, assess the level of tolerance to CNS depression that has developed, the duration of use, and the patient's overall response to treatment. Consider the patient's use of alcohol or illicit drugs. If a CNS depressant is used concurrently with oxymorphone, a reduced dosage of oxymorphone (1/3 to 1/2 of the usual dose) and/or the CNS depressant is recommended. If the extended-release oxymorphone tablets are used concurrently with a CNS depressant, it is recommended to use an initial dosage of 5 mg PO every 12 hours. Monitor for sedation or respiratory depression. Flurazepam: (Major) Concomitant use of opiate agonists with benzodiazepines may cause respiratory depression, hypotension, profound sedation, and death. Limit the use of opiate pain medications with benzodiazepines to only patients for whom alternative treatment options are inadequate. If concurrent use is necessary, use the lowest effective doses and minimum treatment durations needed to achieve the desired clinical effect. If oxymorphone is initiated in a patient taking a benzodiazepine, use an initial dose of oxymorphone at 1/3 to 1/2 the usual dosage and titrate to clinical response. If the extended-release oxymorphone tablets are used concurrently with a CNS depressant, use an initial dosage of 5 mg PO every 12 hours. If a benzodiazepine is prescribed for an indication other than epilepsy in a patient taking an opiate agonist, use a lower initial dose of the benzodiazepine and titrate to clinical response. Educate patients about the risks and symptoms of respiratory depression and sedation. Food: (Major) Food can increase the systemic exposure of oxymorphone. The Cmax and AUC of oxymorphone were increased by approximately 38% in fed subjects relative to fasted subjects after receipt of a 40 mg immediate-release tablet. Administer oxymorphone at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after eating. Fosinopril; Hydrochlorothiazide, HCTZ: (Moderate) Opiate agonists may potentiate orthostatic hypotension when used concurrently with thiazide diuretics. Fosphenytoin: (Moderate) Additive CNS depression could be seen with the combined use of the hydantoin and opiate agonists. Methadone is a primary substrate for the CYP3A4 isoenzyme. Serum concentrations of methadone may decrease due to CYP3A4 induction by phenytoin; withdrawal symptoms may occur. Fospropofol: (Major) It has been reported that the incidence of bradycardia was increased when oxymorphone was combined with propofol for induction of anesthesia. Concomitant use of oxymorphone with other CNS depressants may produce additive CNS depressant effects. In some cases, hypotension, profound sedation, coma, respiratory depression, or death may occur. Severe hypotension may occur if a CNS depressant that inhibits blood pressure maintenance is used. Prior to concurrent use of oxymorphone in patients taking a CNS depressant, assess the level of tolerance to CNS depression that has developed, the duration of use, and the patient's overall response to treatment. Consider the patient's use of alcohol or illicit drugs. If a CNS depressant is used concurrently with oxymorphone, a reduced dosage of oxymorphone (1/3 to 1/2 of the usual dose) and/or the CNS depressant is recommended. If the extended-release oxymorphone tablets are used concurrently with a CNS depressant, it is recommended to use an initial dosage of 5 mg PO every 12 hours. Monitor for sedation or respiratory depression. Gabapentin: (Moderate) Pain medications that contain opiate agonists may intensify CNS depressive adverse effects seen with gabapentin use, such as drowsiness or dizziness. Patients should limit activity until they are aware of how coadministration affects them. Guaifenesin; Hydrocodone: (Major) Concomitant use of hydrocodone with other CNS depressants may lead to hypotension, profound sedation, coma, respiratory depression and death. Prior to concurrent use of hydrocodone in patients taking a CNS depressant, assess the level of tolerance to CNS depression that has developed, the duration of use, and the patient's overall response to treatment. Consider the patient's use of alcohol or illicit drugs. Hydrocodone should be used in reduced dosages if used concurrently with a CNS depressant; initiate hydrocodone at 20 to 30% of the usual dosage in patients that are concurrently receiving another CNS depressant. Also consider a using a lower dose of the CNS depressant. Monitor patients for sedation and respiratory depression. Guaifenesin; Hydrocodone; Pseudoephedrine: (Major) Concomitant use of hydrocodone with other CNS depressants may lead to hypotension, profound sedation, coma, respiratory depression and death. Prior to concurrent use of hydrocodone in patients taking a CNS depressant, assess the level of tolerance to CNS depression that has developed, the duration of use, and the patient's overall response to treatment. Consider the patient's use of alcohol or illicit drugs. Hydrocodone should be used in reduced dosages if used concurrently with a CNS depressant; initiate hydrocodone at 20 to 30% of the usual dosage in patients that are concurrently receiving another CNS depressant. Also consider a using a lower dose of the CNS depressant. Monitor patients for sedation and respiratory depression. Guanabenz: (Moderate) Guanabenz is associated with sedative effects. Guanabenz can potentiate the effects of CNS depressants such as opiate agonists, when administered concomitantly. Guanfacine: (Moderate) Central-acting adrenergic agonists like guanfacine have CNS depressive effects and can potentiate the actions of other CNS depressants including opiate agonists. Haloperidol: (Moderate) Concomitant use of oxymorphone with other CNS depressants may produce additive CNS depressant effects. Hypotension, profound sedation, coma, respiratory depression, or death may occur; examples of other CNS depressants include haloperidol. Prior to concurrent use of oxymorphone in patients taking a CNS depressant, assess the level of tolerance to CNS depression that has developed, the duration of use, and the patient's overall response to treatment. Consider the patient's use of alcohol or illicit drugs. If a CNS depressant is used concurrently with oxymorphone, a reduced dosage of oxymorphone (1/3 to 1/2 of the usual dose) and/or the CNS depressant is recommended. If the extended-release oxymorphone tablets are used concurrently with a CNS depressant, it is recommended to use an initial dosage of 5 mg PO every 12 hours. Monitor for sedation or respiratory depression. Halothane: (Moderate) The concomitant use of oxymorphone with other CNS depressants may produce additive CNS depressant effects. Respiratory depression, hypotension, profound sedation, or coma may result from combination therapy. Severe hypotension may occur if oxymorphone is administered to a patient taking a CNS depressant that inhibits blood pressure maintenance such as general anesthetics. Prior to concurrent use of oxymorphone in patients taking a CNS depressant, assess the level of tolerance to CNS depression that has developed, the duration of use, and the patient's overall response to treatment. Consider the patient's use of alcohol or illicit drugs. Oxymorphone should be used in reduced dosages if used concurrently with a CNS depressant; initiate oxymorphone at one-third to one-half the usual dosage in patients that are concurrently receiving another CNS depressant. Also consider a using a lower dose of the CNS depressant. Slowly titrate the dose as necessary for adequate pain relief and monitor for sedation or respiratory depression. Homatropine; Hydrocodone: (Major) Concomitant use of hydrocodone with other CNS depressants may lead to hypotension, profound sedation, coma, respiratory depression and death. Prior to concurrent use of hydrocodone in patients taking a CNS depressant, assess the level of tolerance to CNS depression that has developed, the duration of use, and the patient's overall response to treatment. Consider the patient's use of alcohol or illicit drugs. Hydrocodone should be used in reduced dosages if used concurrently with a CNS depressant; initiate hydrocodone at 20 to 30% of the usual dosage in patients that are concurrently receiving another CNS depressant. Also consider a using a lower dose of the CNS depressant. Monitor patients for sedation and respiratory depression. Hydantoins: (Moderate) Additive CNS depression could be seen with the combined use of the hydantoin and opiate agonists. Methadone is a primary substrate for the CYP3A4 isoenzyme. Serum concentrations of methadone may decrease due to CYP3A4 induction by phenytoin; withdrawal symptoms may occur. Hydralazine; Hydrochlorothiazide, HCTZ: (Moderate) Opiate agonists may potentiate orthostatic hypotension when used concurrently with thiazide diuretics. Hydrochlorothiazide, HCTZ: (Moderate) Opiate agonists may potentiate orthostatic hypotension when used concurrently with thiazide diuretics. Hydrochlorothiazide, HCTZ; Irbesartan: (Moderate) Opiate agonists may potentiate orthostatic hypotension when used concurrently with thiazide diuretics. Hydrochlorothiazide, HCTZ; Lisinopril: (Moderate) Opiate agonists may potentiate orthostatic hypotension when used concurrently with thiazide diuretics. Hydrochlorothiazide, HCTZ; Losartan: (Moderate) Opiate agonists may potentiate orthostatic hypotension when used concurrently with thiazide diuretics. Hydrochlorothiazide, HCTZ; Methyldopa: (Moderate) Methyldopa is associated with sedative effects. Methyldopa can potentiate the effects of CNS depressants, such as opiate agonists, when administered concomitantly. (Moderate) Opiate agonists may potentiate orthostatic hypotension when used concurrently with thiazide diuretics. Hydrochlorothiazide, HCTZ; Metoprolol: (Moderate) Opiate agonists may potentiate orthostatic hypotension when used concurrently with thiazide diuretics. Hydrochlorothiazide, HCTZ; Moexipril: (Moderate) Opiate agonists may potentiate orthostatic hypotension when used concurrently with thiazide diuretics. Hydrochlorothiazide, HCTZ; Olmesartan: (Moderate) Opiate agonists may potentiate orthostatic hypotension when used concurrently with thiazide diuretics. Hydrochlorothiazide, HCTZ; Propranolol: (Moderate) Opiate agonists may potentiate orthostatic hypotension when used concurrently with thiazide diuretics. Hydrochlorothiazide, HCTZ; Quinapril: (Moderate) Opiate agonists may potentiate orthostatic hypotension when used concurrently with thiazide diuretics. Hydrochlorothiazide, HCTZ; Spironolactone: (Moderate) Opiate agonists may potentiate orthostatic hypotension when used concurrently with thiazide diuretics. Hydrochlorothiazide, HCTZ; Telmisartan: (Moderate) Opiate agonists may potentiate orthostatic hypotension when used concurrently with thiazide diuretics. Hydrochlorothiazide, HCTZ; Triamterene: (Moderate) Opiate agonists may potentiate orthostatic hypotension when used concurrently with thiazide diuretics. Hydrochlorothiazide, HCTZ; Valsartan: (Moderate) Opiate agonists may potentiate orthostatic hypotension when used concurrently with thiazide diuretics. Hydrocodone: (Major) Concomitant use of hydrocodone with other CNS depressants may lead to hypotension, profound sedation, coma, respiratory depression and death. Prior to concurrent use of hydrocodone in patients taking a CNS depressant, assess the level of tolerance to CNS depression that has developed, the duration of use, and the patient's overall response to treatment. Consider the patient's use of alcohol or illicit drugs. Hydrocodone should be used in reduced dosages if used concurrently with a CNS depressant; initiate hydrocodone at 20 to 30% of the usual dosage in patients that are concurrently receiving another CNS depressant. Also consider a using a lower dose of the CNS depressant. Monitor patients for sedation and respiratory depression. Hydrocodone; Ibuprofen: (Major) Concomitant use of hydrocodone with other CNS depressants may lead to hypotension, profound sedation, coma, respiratory depression and death. Prior to concurrent use of hydrocodone in patients taking a CNS depressant, assess the level of tolerance to CNS depression that has developed, the duration of use, and the patient's overall response to treatment. Consider the patient's use of alcohol or illicit drugs. Hydrocodone should be used in reduced dosages if used concurrently with a CNS depressant; initiate hydrocodone at 20 to 30% of the usual dosage in patients that are concurrently receiving another CNS depressant. Also consider a using a lower dose of the CNS depressant. Monitor patients for sedation and respiratory depression. Hydrocodone; Phenylephrine: (Major) Concomitant use of hydrocodone with other CNS depressants may lead to hypotension, profound sedation, coma, respiratory depression and death. Prior to concurrent use of hydrocodone in patients taking a CNS depressant, assess the level of tolerance to CNS depression that has developed, the duration of use, and the patient's overall response to treatment. Consider the patient's use of alcohol or illicit drugs. Hydrocodone should be used in reduced dosages if used concurrently with a CNS depressant; initiate hydrocodone at 20 to 30% of the usual dosage in patients that are concurrently receiving another CNS depressant. Also consider a using a lower dose of the CNS depressant. Monitor patients for sedation and respiratory depression. Hydrocodone; Potassium Guaiacolsulfonate: (Major) Concomitant use of hydrocodone with other CNS depressants may lead to hypotension, profound sedation, coma, respiratory depression and death. Prior to concurrent use of hydrocodone in patients taking a CNS depressant, assess the level of tolerance to CNS depression that has developed, the duration of use, and the patient's overall response to treatment. Consider the patient's use of alcohol or illicit drugs. Hydrocodone should be used in reduced dosages if used concurrently with a CNS depressant; initiate hydrocodone at 20 to 30% of the usual dosage in patients that are concurrently receiving another CNS depressant. Also consider a using a lower dose of the CNS depressant. Monitor patients for sedation and respiratory depression. Hydrocodone; Potassium Guaiacolsulfonate; Pseudoephedrine: (Major) Concomitant use of hydrocodone with other CNS depressants may lead to hypotension, profound sedation, coma, respiratory depression and death. Prior to concurrent use of hydrocodone in patients taking a CNS depressant, assess the level of tolerance to CNS depression that has developed, the duration of use, and the patient's overall response to treatment. Consider the patient's use of alcohol or illicit drugs. Hydrocodone should be used in reduced dosages if used concurrently with a CNS depressant; initiate hydrocodone at 20 to 30% of the usual dosage in patients that are concurrently receiving another CNS depressant. Also consider a using a lower dose of the CNS depressant. Monitor patients for sedation and respiratory depression. Hydrocodone; Pseudoephedrine: (Major) Concomitant use of hydrocodone with other CNS depressants may lead to hypotension, profound sedation, coma, respiratory depression and death. Prior to concurrent use of hydrocodone in patients taking a CNS depressant, assess the level of tolerance to CNS depression that has developed, the duration of use, and the patient's overall response to treatment. Consider the patient's use of alcohol or illicit drugs. Hydrocodone should be used in reduced dosages if used concurrently with a CNS depressant; initiate hydrocodone at 20 to 30% of the usual dosage in patients that are concurrently receiving another CNS depressant. Also consider a using a lower dose of the CNS depressant. Monitor patients for sedation and respiratory depression. Hydromorphone: (Major) Concomitant use of hydromorphone with other central nervous system (CNS) depressants, such as other opiate agonists, can potentiate the effects of hydromorphone and may lead to additive CNS or respiratory depression, profound sedation, or coma. Prior to concurrent use of hydromorphone in patients taking a CNS depressant, assess the level of tolerance to CNS depression that has developed, the duration of use, and the patient's overall response to treatment. Consider the patient's use of alcohol or illicit drugs. If hydromorphone is used concurrently with a CNS depressant, a reduced dosage of hydromorphone and/or the CNS depressant is recommended; start with one-third to one-half of the estimated hydromorphone starting dose when using hydromorphone extended-release tablets. A reduced dosage of oxymorphone (1/3 to 1/2 of the usual dose) is recommended. If the extended-release oxymorphone tablets are used concurrently with a CNS depressant, it is recommended to use an initial dosage of 5 mg PO every 12 hours. Carefully monitor the patient for hypotension, CNS depression, and respiratory depression. Carbon dioxide retention from opioid-induced respiratory depression can exacerbate the sedating effects of opioids. Hydroxyzine: (Moderate) Concomitant use of oxymorphone with other CNS depressants may produce additive CNS depressant effects. Hypotension, profound sedation, coma, respiratory depression, or death may occur; examples of other CNS depressants include sedating H1-blockers. Prior to concurrent use of oxymorphone in patients taking a CNS depressant, assess the level of tolerance to CNS depression that has developed, the duration of use, and the patient's overall response to treatment. Consider the patient's use of alcohol or illicit drugs. If a CNS depressant is used concurrently with oxymorphone, a reduced dosage of oxymorphone (1/3 to 1/2 of the usual dose) and/or the CNS depressant is recommended. If the extended-release oxymorphone tablets are used concurrently with a CNS depressant, it is recommended to use an initial dosage of 5 mg PO every 12 hours. Monitor for sedation or respiratory depression. Ibuprofen; Oxycodone: (Major) Concomitant use of oxycodone with other opiate agonists may lead to additive respiratory and/or CNS depression. Hypotension, profound sedation, coma, respiratory depression, or death may occur. Prior to concurrent use of oxycodone in patients taking a CNS depressant, assess the level of tolerance to CNS depression that has developed, the duration of use, and the patient's overall response to treatment. Consider the patient's use of alcohol or illicit drugs. If a CNS depressant is used concurrently with oxycodone, a reduced dosage of oxycodone and/or the CNS depressant is recommended; use an initial dose of oxycodone at 1/3 to 1/2 the usual dosage. a reduced dosage of oxymorphone (1/3 to 1/2 of the usual dose) and/or the CNS depressant is recommended. If the extended-release oxymorphone tablets are used concurrently with a CNS depressant, it is recommended to use an initial dosage of 5 mg PO every 12 hours. Monitor for sedation and respiratory depression. Iloperidone: (Moderate) Concomitant use of iloperidone with other centrally-acting medications such as opiate agonists, may increase both the frequency and the intensity of adverse effects including drowsiness, sedation, and dizziness. Imipramine: (Moderate) Concomitant use of oxymorphone with other CNS depressants, such as tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs), may produce additive CNS depressant effects. Hypotension, profound sedation, respiratory depression, or coma may occur. Orthostasis may occur in ambulatory patients. Both oxymorphone and TCAs may produce constipation. Prior to concurrent use of oxymorphone in patients taking a TCA, assess the level of tolerance to CNS depression that has developed, the duration of use, and the patient's overall response to treatment. Consider the patient's use of alcohol or illicit drugs. If a TCA is used concurrently with oxymorphone, a reduced initial dosage of oxymorphone (one-third to one-half of the usual dose) and/or the CNS depressant is recommended. If the extended-release oxymorphone tablets are used concurrently with a CNS depressant, it is recommended to use an initial dosage of 5 mg PO every 12 hours. Monitor for sedation, respiratory depression, and for reduced GI motility. Isocarboxazid: (Major) Some manufacturers of oxymorphone recommend against use within 14 days of treatment with a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) because severe and unpredictable potentiation by MAO inhibitors has been reported with opiates. During concurrent use of other CNS depressants, additive respiratory or CNS depressant effects, hypotension, profound sedation, coma, or death may occur. If concurrent use is necessary, assess the level of tolerance to CNS depression that has developed, the duration of use, the patient's overall response to treatment, and the patient's use of alcohol or illicit drugs. Initiate oxymorphone at one-third to one-half the usual dosage in patients concurrently receiving another CNS depressant and slowly titrate the dose based on efficacy and tolerability. Consider a lower dose of the CNS depressant. Advise patients against driving or performing other activities requiring mental alertness until they know how the combination affects them. Isoflurane: (Moderate) The concomitant use of oxymorphone with other CNS depressants may produce additive CNS depressant effects. Respiratory depression, hypotension, profound sedation, or coma may result from combination therapy. Severe hypotension may occur if oxymorphone is administered to a patient taking a CNS depressant that inhibits blood pressure maintenance such as general anesthetics. Prior to concurrent use of oxymorphone in patients taking a CNS depressant, assess the level of tolerance to CNS depression that has developed, the duration of use, and the patient's overall response to treatment. Consider the patient's use of alcohol or illicit drugs. Oxymorphone should be used in reduced dosages if used concurrently with a CNS depressant; initiate oxymorphone at one-third to one-half the usual dosage in patients that are concurrently receiving another CNS depressant. Also consider a using a lower dose of the CNS depressant. Slowly titrate the dose as necessary for adequate pain relief and monitor for sedation or respiratory depression. Lactobacillus: (Moderate) Concurrent use of antidiarrheals and opiate agonists, can lead to severe constipation and possibly additive CNS depression. Opioids increase the tone and decrease the propulsive contractions of the smooth muscle of the gastrointestinal tract. Prolongation of the gastrointestinal transit time may be the mechanism of the constipating effect. Levobupivacaine: (Moderate) The use of these drugs together must be approached with caution. Although commonly used together for additive analgesic effects, the patient must be monitored for respiratory depression, hypotension, and excessive sedation due to additive effects on the CNS and blood pressure. In rare instances, serious morbidity and mortality has occurred. Limit the use of opiate pain medications with local anesthetics to only patients for whom alternative treatment options are inadequate. If concurrent use is necessary, use the lowest effective doses and minimum treatment durations needed to achieve the desired clinical effect. The use of the local anesthetic may allow for the use a lower initial dose of the opiate and then the doses can be titrated to proper clinical response. Educate patients about the risks and symptoms of respiratory depression and sedation. Levocetirizine: (Moderate) Additive drowsiness may occur if cetirizine or levocetirizine is administered with other drugs that depress the CNS, including opiate agonists. Levorphanol: (Major) Concomitant use of oxymorphone with other CNS depressants may produce additive CNS depressant effects. Respiratory depression, hypotension, profound sedation, or coma may result from combination therapy. Prior to concurrent use of oxymorphone in patients taking a CNS depressant, assess the level of tolerance to CNS depression that has developed, the duration of use, and the patient's overall response to treatment. Consider the patient's use of alcohol or illicit drugs. Oxymorphone should be used in reduced dosages if used concurrently with a CNS depressant; initiate oxymorphone at one-third to one-half the usual dosage in patients that are concurrently receiving another CNS depressant. Also consider a using a lower dose of the CNS depressant. Slowly titrate the dose as necessary for adequate pain relief and monitor for sedation or respiratory depression. Lidocaine: (Moderate) The use of these drugs together must be approached with caution. Although commonly used together for additive analgesic effects, the patient must be monitored for respiratory depression, hypotension, and excessive sedation due to additive effects on the CNS and blood pressure. In rare instances, serious morbidity and mortality has occurred. Limit the use of opiate pain medications with local anesthetics to only patients for whom alternative treatment options are inadequate. If concurrent use is necessary, use the lowest effective doses and minimum treatment durations needed to achieve the desired clinical effect. The use of the local anesthetic may allow for the use a lower initial dose of the opiate and then the doses can be titrated to proper clinical response. Educate patients about the risks and symptoms of respiratory depression and sedation. Lincosamides: (Moderate) Lincosamides, which have been shown to exhibit neuromuscular blocking action, can enhance the effects of opiate agonists if used concomitantly, enhancing respiratory depressant effects. They should be used together with caution and the patient carefully monitored. Loperamide: (Moderate) Additive constipation may be seen with concurrent use of opiate agonists and antidiarrheals. Opioids increase the tone and decrease the propulsive contractions of the smooth muscle of the gastrointestinal tract. Prolongation of the gastrointestinal transit time may be the mechanism of the constipating effect. Concurrent use of selected antidiarrheals (e.g., loperamide, diphenoxylate) and opiate agonists can lead to additive CNS depression. Loperamide; Simethicone: (Moderate) Additive constipation may be seen with concurrent use of opiate agonists and antidiarrheals. Opioids increase the tone and decrease the propulsive contractions of the smooth muscle of the gastrointestinal tract. Prolongation of the gastrointestinal transit time may be the mechanism of the constipating effect. Concurrent use of selected antidiarrheals (e.g., loperamide, diphenoxylate) and opiate agonists can lead to additive CNS depression. Lopinavir; Ritonavir: (Moderate) Ritonavir is an inhibitor of the cytochrome P450 3A4 isoenzyme and may decrease the metabolism of oxymorphone if the two drugs are coadministered. Loratadine: (Minor) Although loratadine is considered a 'non-sedating' antihistamine, dose-related sedation has been noted. For this reason, it would be prudent to monitor for drowsiness during concurrent use of loratadine with CNS depressants such as opiate agonists. Loratadine; Pseudoephedrine: (Minor) Although loratadine is considered a 'non-sedating' antihistamine, dose-related sedation has been noted. For this reason, it would be prudent to monitor for drowsiness during concurrent use of loratadine with CNS depressants such as opiate agonists. Lorazepam: (Major) Concomitant use of opiate agonists with benzodiazepines may cause respiratory depression, hypotension, profound sedation, and death. Limit the use of opiate pain medications with benzodiazepines to only patients for whom alternative treatment options are inadequate. If concurrent use is necessary, use the lowest effective doses and minimum treatment durations needed to achieve the desired clinical effect. If oxymorphone is initiated in a patient taking a benzodiazepine, use an initial dose of oxymorphone at 1/3 to 1/2 the usual dosage and titrate to clinical response. If the extended-release oxymorphone tablets are used concurrently with a CNS depressant, use an initial dosage of 5 mg PO every 12 hours. If a benzodiazepine is prescribed for an indication other than epilepsy in a patient taking an opiate agonist, use a lower initial dose of the benzodiazepine and titrate to clinical response. Educate patients about the risks and symptoms of respiratory depression and sedation. Loxapine: (Moderate) Loxapine can potentiate the actions of other CNS depressants such as opiate agonists. Caution should be exercised with simultaneous use of these agents due to potential excessive CNS effects. Lurasidone: (Moderate) Due to the CNS effects of lurasidone, caution should be used when lurasidone is given in combination with other centrally acting medications such as opiate agonists. Magnesium Salts: (Minor) Because of the CNS-depressant effects of magnesium sulfate, additive central-depressant effects can occur following concurrent administration with CNS depressants such as opiate agonists. Caution should be exercised when using these agents concurrently. Maprotiline: (Moderate) Concomitant use of oxymorphone with other CNS depressants may produce additive CNS depressant effects. Hypotension, profound sedation, coma, respiratory depression, or death may occur; examples of other CNS depressants include maprotiline. Prior to concurrent use of oxymorphone in patients taking a CNS depressant, assess the level of tolerance to CNS depression that has developed, the duration of use, and the patient's overall response to treatment. Consider the patient's use of alcohol or illicit drugs. If a CNS depressant is used concurrently with oxymorphone, a reduced dosage of oxymorphone (1/3 to 1/2 of the usual dose) and/or the CNS depressant is recommended. If the extended-release oxymorphone tablets are used concurrently with a CNS depressant, it is recommended to use an initial dosage of 5 mg PO every 12 hours. Monitor for sedation or respiratory depression. Meclizine: (Moderate) Concomitant use of oxymorphone with other CNS depressants may produce additive CNS depressant effects. Hypotension, profound sedation, coma, respiratory depression, or death may occur; examples of other CNS depressants include sedating H1-blockers. Prior to concurrent use of oxymorphone in patients taking a CNS depressant, assess the level of tolerance to CNS depression that has developed, the duration of use, and the patient's overall response to treatment. Consider the patient's use of alcohol or illicit drugs. If a CNS depressant is used concurrently with oxymorphone, a reduced dosage of oxymorphone (1/3 to 1/2 of the usual dose) and/or the CNS depressant is recommended. If the extended-release oxymorphone tablets are used concurrently with a CNS depressant, it is recommended to use an initial dosage of 5 mg PO every 12 hours. Monitor for sedation or respiratory depression. Meperidine: (Major) Concomitant use of oxymorphone with other CNS depressants may produce additive CNS depressant effects. Respiratory depression, hypotension, profound sedation, or coma may result from combination therapy. Prior to concurrent use of oxymorphone in patients taking a CNS depressant, assess the level of tolerance to CNS depression that has developed, the duration of use, and the patient's overall response to treatment. Consider the patient's use of alcohol or illicit drugs. Oxymorphone should be used in reduced dosages if used concurrently with a CNS depressant; initiate oxymorphone at one-third to one-half the usual dosage in patients that are concurrently receiving another CNS depressant. Also consider a using a lower dose of the CNS depressant. Slowly titrate the dose as necessary for adequate pain relief and monitor for sedation or respiratory depression. Meperidine; Promethazine: (Major) Concomitant use of oxymorphone with other CNS depressants may produce additive CNS depressant effects. Respiratory depression, hypotension, profound sedation, or coma may result from combination therapy. Prior to concurrent use of oxymorphone in patients taking a CNS depressant, assess the level of tolerance to CNS depression that has developed, the duration of use, and the patient's overall response to treatment. Consider the patient's use of alcohol or illicit drugs. Oxymorphone should be used in reduced dosages if used concurrently with a CNS depressant; initiate oxymorphone at one-third to one-half the usual dosage in patients that are concurrently receiving another CNS depressant. Also consider a using a lower dose of the CNS depressant. Slowly titrate the dose as necessary for adequate pain relief and monitor for sedation or respiratory depression. Mepivacaine: (Moderate) The use of these drugs together must be approached with caution. Although commonly used together for additive analgesic effects, the patient must be monitored for respiratory depression, hypotension, and excessive sedation due to additive effects on the CNS and blood pressure. In rare instances, serious morbidity and mortality has occurred. Limit the use of opiate pain medications with local anesthetics to only patients for whom alternative treatment options are inadequate. If concurrent use is necessary, use the lowest effective doses and minimum treatment durations needed to achieve the desired clinical effect. The use of the local anesthetic may allow for the use a lower initial dose of the opiate and then the doses can be titrated to proper clinical response. Educate patients about the risks and symptoms of respiratory depression and sedation. Mepivacaine; Levonordefrin: (Moderate) The use of these drugs together must be approached with caution. Although commonly used together for additive analgesic effects, the patient must be monitored for respiratory depression, hypotension, and excessive sedation due to additive effects on the CNS and blood pressure. In rare instances, serious morbidity and mortality has occurred. Limit the use of opiate pain medications with local anesthetics to only patients for whom alternative treatment options are inadequate. If concurrent use is necessary, use the lowest effective doses and minimum treatment durations needed to achieve the desired clinical effect. The use of the local anesthetic may allow for the use a lower initial dose of the opiate and then the doses can be titrated to proper clinical response. Educate patients about the risks and symptoms of respiratory depression and sedation. Meprobamate: (Moderate) Concomitant use of oxymorphone with meprobamate may produce additive CNS depressant effects. Hypotension, profound sedation, coma, respiratory depression, or death may occur. Prior to concurrent use, assess the level of tolerance to CNS depression that has developed, the duration of use, and the patient's overall response to treatment. Consider the patient's use of alcohol or illicit drugs. If meprobamate is used concurrently with oxymorphone, a reduced dosage of oxymorphone (1/3 to 1/2 of the usual dose) and/or meprobamate is recommended. If the extended-release oxymorphone tablets are used concurrently with a CNS depressant, it is recommended to use an initial dosage of 5 mg PO every 12 hours. Monitor for sedation or respiratory depression. Mesoridazine: (Moderate) Concomitant use of oxymorphone with other CNS depressants may produce additive CNS depressant effects. Hypotension, profound sedation, coma, respiratory depression, or death may occur. Severe hypotension may occur if oxymorphone is administered to a patient taking a CNS depressant that inhibits blood pressure maintenance such as phenothiazines. Prior to concurrent use of oxymorphone in patients taking a CNS depressant, assess the level of tolerance to CNS depression that has developed, the duration of use, and the patient's overall response to treatment. Consider the patient's use of alcohol or illicit drugs. If a CNS depressant is used concurrently with oxymorphone, a reduced dosage of oxymorphone (1/3 to 1/2 of the usual dose) and/or the CNS depressant is recommended. If the extended-release oxymorphone tablets are used concurrently with a CNS depressant, it is recommended to use an initial dosage of 5 mg PO every 12 hours. Monitor for sedation or respiratory depression. Metaxalone: (Major) Concomitant use of opiate agonists with skeletal muscle relaxants may cause respiratory depression, hypotension, profound sedation, and death. Limit the use of opiate pain medications with skeletal muscle relaxants to only patients for whom alternative treatment options are inadequate. If concurrent use is necessary, use the lowest effective doses and minimum treatment durations needed to achieve the desired clinical effect. If oxymorphone is initiated in a patient taking a skeletal muscle relaxant, use an initial dose of oxymorphone at one-third to one-half the usual dosage and titrate to clinical response. If the extended-release oxymorphone tablets are used concurrently with a skeletal muscle relaxant, use an initial dosage of 5 mg PO every 12 hours. If a skeletal muscle relaxant is prescribed for a patient taking an opiate agonist, use a lower initial dose of the skeletal muscle relaxant and titrate to clinical response. Educate patients about the risks and symptoms of respiratory depression and sedation. Methadone: (Major) Concomitant use of methadone with another CNS depressant can lead to additive respiratory depression, hypotension, profound sedation, or coma. Prior to concurrent use of methadone in patients taking a CNS depressant, assess the level of tolerance to CNS depression that has developed, the duration of use, and the patient's overall response to treatment. Consider the patient's use of alcohol or illicit drugs. Methadone should be used with caution and in reduced dosages if used concurrently with a CNS depressant; also consider a using a lower dose of the CNS depressant. Monitor patients for sedation and respiratory depression. Methocarbamol: (Major) Concomitant use of opiate agonists with skeletal muscle relaxants may cause respiratory depression, hypotension, profound sedation, and death. Limit the use of opiate pain medications with skeletal muscle relaxants to only patients for whom alternative treatment options are inadequate. If concurrent use is necessary, use the lowest effective doses and minimum treatment durations needed to achieve the desired clinical effect. If oxymorphone is initiated in a patient taking a skeletal muscle relaxant, use an initial dose of oxymorphone at 1/3 to 1/2 the usual dosage and titrate to clinical response. If the extended-release oxymorphone tablets are used concurrently with a skeletal muscle relaxant, use an initial dosage of 5 mg PO every 12 hours. If a skeletal muscle relaxant is prescribed for a patient taking an opiate agonist, use a lower initial dose of the skeletal muscle relaxant and titrate to clinical response. Educate patients about the risks and symptoms of respiratory depression and sedation. Methyclothiazide: (Moderate) Opiate agonists may potentiate orthostatic hypotension when used concurrently with thiazide diuretics. Methyldopa: (Moderate) Methyldopa is associated with sedative effects. Methyldopa can potentiate the effects of CNS depressants, such as opiate agonists, when administered concomitantly. Metoclopramide: (Moderate) Opiate agonists antagonize GI motility and can decrease the gastroprokinetic effects of metoclopramide. Metolazone: (Moderate) Opiate agonists may potentiate orthostatic hypotension when used concurrently with thiazide diuretics. Metyrapone: (Moderate) Metyrapone may cause dizziness and/or drowsiness. Other drugs that may also cause drowsiness, such as opiate agonists, should be used with caution. Additive drowsiness and/or dizziness is possible. Metyrosine: (Moderate) The concomitant administration of metyrosine with opiate agonists can result in additive sedative effects. Midazolam: (Major) Concomitant use of opiate agonists with benzodiazepines may cause respiratory depression, hypotension, profound sedation, and death. Limit the use of opiate pain medications with benzodiazepines to only patients for whom alternative treatment options are inadequate. If concurrent use is necessary, use the lowest effective doses and minimum treatment durations needed to achieve the desired clinical effect. If oxymorphone is initiated in a patient taking a benzodiazepine, use an initial dose of oxymorphone at 1/3 to 1/2 the usual dosage and titrate to clinical response. If the extended-release oxymorphone tablets are used concurrently with a CNS depressant, use an initial dosage of 5 mg PO every 12 hours. If a benzodiazepine is prescribed for an indication other than epilepsy in a patient taking an opiate agonist, use a lower initial dose of the benzodiazepine and titrate to clinical response. Educate patients about the risks and symptoms of respiratory depression and sedation. Minocycline: (Minor) Injectable minocycline contains magnesium sulfate heptahydrate. Because of the CNS-depressant effects of magnesium sulfate, additive central-depressant effects can occur following concurrent administration with CNS depressants such as opiate agonists. Caution should be exercised when using these agents concurrently. Mirtazapine: (Moderate) Concomitant use of oxymorphone with other CNS depressants may produce additive CNS depressant effects. Hypotension, profound sedation, coma, respiratory depression, or death may occur; examples of other CNS depressants include mirtazapine. Prior to concurrent use of oxymorphone in patients taking a CNS depressant, assess the level of tolerance to CNS depression that has developed, the duration of use, and the patient's overall response to treatment. Consider the patient's use of alcohol or illicit drugs. If a CNS depressant is used concurrently with oxymorphone, a reduced dosage of oxymorphone (1/3 to 1/2 of the usual dose) and/or the CNS depressant is recommended. If the extended-release oxymorphone tablets are used concurrently with a CNS depressant, it is recommended to use an initial dosage of 5 mg PO every 12 hours. Monitor for sedation or respiratory depression. Mivacurium: (Moderate) Additive CNS depression may occur if opiate agonists are used concomitantly with other CNS depressants, including neuromuscular blockers. Molindone: (Moderate) Concomitant use of opiate agonists with other central nervous system (CNS) depressants, such as molindone, can potentiate the effects of the opiate and may lead to additive CNS or respiratory depression, profound sedation, or coma. Prior to concurrent use of an opiate in patients taking a CNS depressant, assess the level of tolerance to CNS depression that has developed, the duration of use, and the patient's overall response to treatment. Consider the patient's use of alcohol or illicit drugs. If these agents are used together, a reduced dosage of the opiate and/or molindone is recommended. Carefully monitor the patient for hypotension, CNS depression, and respiratory depression. Carbon dioxide retention from opioid-induced respiratory depression can exacerbate the sedating effects of opioids. Monoamine oxidase inhibitors: (Major) Some manufacturers of oxymorphone recommend against use within 14 days of treatment with a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) because severe and unpredictable potentiation by MAO inhibitors has been reported with opiates. During concurrent use of other CNS depressants, additive respiratory or CNS depressant effects, hypotension, profound sedation, coma, or death may occur. If concurrent use is necessary, assess the level of tolerance to CNS depression that has developed, the duration of use, the patient's overall response to treatment, and the patient's use of alcohol or illicit drugs. Initiate oxymorphone at one-third to one-half the usual dosage in patients concurrently receiving another CNS depressant and slowly titrate the dose based on efficacy and tolerability. Consider a lower dose of the CNS depressant. Advise patients against driving or performing other activities requiring mental alertness until they know how the combination affects them. Morphine: (Major) Concomitant use of oxymorphone with morphine may produce additive CNS depressant effects. Respiratory depression, hypotension, profound sedation, or coma may result from combination therapy. Prior to concurrent use, assess the level of tolerance to CNS depression that has developed and the patient's overall response to treatment. Consider the patient's use of alcohol or illicit drugs. Oxymorphone should be used in reduced dosages if used concurrently with a CNS depressant; initiate oxymorphone at one-third to one-half the usual dosage in patients that are also receiving morphine. A reduced dosage of morphine may also be necessary. If the patient is receiving an extended-release product, start with the lowest possible dose of morphine. Slowly titrate the dose as necessary for adequate pain relief and monitor for sedation or respiratory depression. Morphine; Naltrexone: (Major) Concomitant use of oxymorphone with morphine may produce additive CNS depressant effects. Respiratory depression, hypotension, profound sedation, or coma may result from combination therapy. Prior to concurrent use, assess the level of tolerance to CNS depression that has developed and the patient's overall response to treatment. Consider the patient's use of alcohol or illicit drugs. Oxymorphone should be used in reduced dosages if used concurrently with a CNS depressant; initiate oxymorphone at one-third to one-half the usual dosage in patients that are also receiving morphine. A reduced dosage of morphine may also be necessary. If the patient is receiving an extended-release product, start with the lowest possible dose of morphine. Slowly titrate the dose as necessary for adequate pain relief and monitor for sedation or respiratory depression. Nabilone: (Moderate) Concomitant use of opiate agonists with other central nervous system (CNS) depressants, such as nabilone, can potentiate the effects of the opiate and may lead to additive CNS or respiratory depression, profound sedation, or coma. Prior to concurrent use of an opiate in patients taking a CNS depressant, assess the level of tolerance to CNS depression that has developed, the duration of use, and the patient's overall response to treatment. Consider the patient's use of alcohol or illicit drugs. If these agents are used together, a reduced dosage of the opiate and/or the CNS depressant is recommended. Carefully monitor the patient for hypotension, CNS depression, and respiratory depression. Carbon dioxide retention from opioid-induced respiratory depression can exacerbate the sedating effects of opioids. Nalbuphine: (Major) Avoid the concomitant use of nalbuphine and opiate agonists, such as oxymorphone. Nalbuphine is a mixed opiate agonist/antagonist that may block the effects of opiate agonists and reduce analgesic effects. Nalbuphine may cause withdrawal symptoms in patients receiving chronic opiate agonists. Concurrent use of nalbuphine with other opiate agonists can cause additive CNS, respiratory, and hypotensive effects. The additive or antagonistic effects are dependent upon the dose of the opiate agonist used; antagonistic effects are more common at low to moderate doses of the opiate agonist. Naloxone: (Major) The opiate antagonists naloxone and naltrexone are pharmacologic opposites of oxymorphone. These drugs can block the actions of oxymorphone and if administered to patients who are have received chronic oxymorphone therapy, can produce acute withdrawal and/or allow pain to recur. An opiate antagonist should not be administered in the absence of clinically significant respiratory or circulatory depression secondary to oxymorphone overdose. Naltrexone: (Major) When naltrexone is used as adjuvant treatment of opiate or alcohol dependence, use is contraindicated in patients currently receiving opiate agonists. Naltrexone will antagonize the therapeutic benefits of opiate agonists and will induce a withdrawal reaction in patients with physical dependence to opioids. Naltrexone should not be administered in the absence of clinically significant respiratory or circulatory depression secondary to oxymorphone overdose. Also, patients should be opiate-free for at least 7-10 days prior to initiating naltrexone therapy. If there is any question of opioid use in the past 7-10 days and the patient is not experiencing opioid withdrawal symptoms and/or the urine is negative for opioids, a naloxone challenge test needs to be performed. If a patient receives naltrexone, and an opiate agonist is needed for an emergency situation, large doses of opiate agonists may ultimately overwhelm naltrexone antagonism of opiate receptors. Immediately following administration of exogenous opiate agonists, the opiate plasma concentration may be sufficient to overcome naltrexone competitive blockade, but the patient may experience deeper and more prolonged respiratory depression and thus, may be in danger of respiratory arrest and circulatory collapse. Non-receptor mediated actions like facial swelling, itching, generalized erythema, or bronchoconstriction may occur presumably due to histamine release. A rapidly acting opiate agonist is preferred as the duration of respiratory depression will be shorter. Patients receiving naltrexone may also experience opiate side effects with low doses of opiate agonists. If the opiate agonist is taken in such a way that high concentrations remain in the body beyond the time naltrexone exerts its therapeutic effects, serious side effects may occur. Nefazodone: (Moderate) Concomitant use of oxymorphone with other CNS depressants may produce additive CNS depressant effects. Hypotension, profound sedation, coma, respiratory depression, or death may occur; examples of other CNS depressants include nefazodone. Prior to concurrent use of oxymorphone in patients taking a CNS depressant, assess the level of tolerance to CNS depression that has developed, the duration of use, and the patient's overall response to treatment. Consider the patient's use of alcohol or illicit drugs. If a CNS depressant is used concurrently with oxymorphone, a reduced dosage of oxymorphone (1/3 to 1/2 of the usual dose) and/or the CNS depressant is recommended. If the extended-release oxymorphone tablets are used concurrently with a CNS depressant, it is recommended to use an initial dosage of 5 mg PO every 12 hours. Monitor for sedation or respiratory depression. Nesiritide, BNP: (Major) The potential for hypotension may be increased when coadministering nesiritide with opiate agonists. Neuromuscular blockers: (Moderate) Additive CNS depression may occur if opiate agonists are used concomitantly with other CNS depressants, including neuromuscular blockers. Nitroglycerin: (Minor) Nitroglycerin can cause hypotension. This action may be additive with other agents that can cause hypotension such as opiate agonists. Patients should be monitored more closely for hypotension if nitroglycerin is used concurrently with opiate agonists. Nortriptyline: (Moderate) Concomitant use of oxymorphone with other CNS depressants, such as tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs), may produce additive CNS depressant effects. Hypotension, profound sedation, respiratory depression, or coma may occur. Orthostasis may occur in ambulatory patients. Both oxymorphone and TCAs may produce constipation. Prior to concurrent use of oxymorphone in patients taking a TCA, assess the level of tolerance to CNS depression that has developed, the duration of use, and the patient's overall response to treatment. Consider the patient's use of alcohol or illicit drugs. If a TCA is used concurrently with oxymorphone, a reduced initial dosage of oxymorphone (one-third to one-half of the usual dose) and/or the CNS depressant is recommended. If the extended-release oxymorphone tablets are used concurrently with a CNS depressant, it is recommended to use an initial dosage of 5 mg PO every 12 hours. Monitor for sedation, respiratory depression, and for reduced GI motility. Octreotide: (Moderate) Octreotide can cause additive constipation with opiate agonists such as oxymorphone. Opioids increase the tone and decrease the propulsive contractions of the smooth muscle of the gastrointestinal tract. Prolongation of the gastrointestinal transit time may be the mechanism of the constipating effect. Monitor patients during concomitant use. Olanzapine: (Moderate) Concomitant use of oxymorphone with other CNS depressants may produce additive CNS depressant effects. Hypotension, profound sedation, coma, respiratory depression, or death may occur; examples of other CNS depressants include olanzapine. Prior to concurrent use of oxymorphone in patients taking a CNS depressant, assess the level of tolerance to CNS depression that has developed, the duration of use, and the patient's overall response to treatment. Consider the patient's use of alcohol or illicit drugs. If a CNS depressant is used concurrently with oxymorphone, a reduced dosage of oxymorphone (1/3 to 1/2 of the usual dose) and/or the CNS depressant is recommended. If the extended-release oxymorphone tablets are used concurrently with a CNS depressant, it is recommended to use an initial dosage of 5 mg PO every 12 hours. Monitor for sedation or respiratory depression. Ombitasvir; Paritaprevir; Ritonavir: (Moderate) Ritonavir is an inhibitor of the cytochrome P450 3A4 isoenzyme and may decrease the metabolism of oxymorphone if the two drugs are coadministered. Orphenadrine: (Major) Concomitant use of opiate agonists with skeletal muscle relaxants may cause respiratory depression, hypotension, profound sedation, and death. Limit the use of opiate pain medications with skeletal muscle relaxants to only patients for whom alternative treatment options are inadequate. If concurrent use is necessary, use the lowest effective doses and minimum treatment durations needed to achieve the desired clinical effect. If oxymorphone is initiated in a patient taking a skeletal muscle relaxant, use an initial dose of oxymorphone at one-third to one-half the usual dosage and titrate to clinical response. If the extended-release oxymorphone tablets are used concurrently with a skeletal muscle relaxant, use an initial dosage of 5 mg PO every 12 hours. If a skeletal muscle relaxant is prescribed for a patient taking an opiate agonist, use a lower initial dose of the skeletal muscle relaxant and titrate to clinical response. Educate patients about the risks and symptoms of respiratory depression and sedation. Oxazepam: (Major) Concomitant use of opiate agonists with benzodiazepines may cause respiratory depression, hypotension, profound sedation, and death. Limit the use of opiate pain medications with benzodiazepines to only patients for whom alternative treatment options are inadequate. If concurrent use is necessary, use the lowest effective doses and minimum treatment durations needed to achieve the desired clinical effect. If oxymorphone is initiated in a patient taking a benzodiazepine, use an initial dose of oxymorphone at 1/3 to 1/2 the usual dosage and titrate to clinical response. If the extended-release oxymorphone tablets are used concurrently with a CNS depressant, use an initial dosage of 5 mg PO every 12 hours. If a benzodiazepine is prescribed for an indication other than epilepsy in a patient taking an opiate agonist, use a lower initial dose of the benzodiazepine and titrate to clinical response. Educate patients about the risks and symptoms of respiratory depression and sedation. Oxycodone: (Major) Concomitant use of oxycodone with other opiate agonists may lead to additive respiratory and/or CNS depression. Hypotension, profound sedation, coma, respiratory depression, or death may occur. Prior to concurrent use of oxycodone in patients taking a CNS depressant, assess the level of tolerance to CNS depression that has developed, the duration of use, and the patient's overall response to treatment. Consider the patient's use of alcohol or illicit drugs. If a CNS depressant is used concurrently with oxycodone, a reduced dosage of oxycodone and/or the CNS depressant is recommended; use an initial dose of oxycodone at 1/3 to 1/2 the usual dosage. a reduced dosage of oxymorphone (1/3 to 1/2 of the usual dose) and/or the CNS depressant is recommended. If the extended-release oxymorphone tablets are used concurrently with a CNS depressant, it is recommended to use an initial dosage of 5 mg PO every 12 hours. Monitor for sedation and respiratory depression. Paliperidone: (Moderate) Drugs that can cause CNS depression such as opiate agonists, if used concomitantly with paliperidone, can increase both the frequency and the intensity of adverse effects such as drowsiness, sedation, and dizziness. Pancuronium: (Moderate) Additive CNS depression may occur if opiate agonists are used concomitantly with other CNS depressants, including neuromuscular blockers. Papaverine: (Moderate) Papaverine is a benzylisoquinoline alkaloid of opium and may have synergistic effects with opiate agonists. Concurrent use of papaverine with potent CNS depressants could lead to enhanced sedation. Pegvisomant: (Moderate) In clinical trials, patients taking opiate agonists often required higher serum pegvisomant concentrations to achieve appropriate IGF-I suppression compared with patients not receiving opiate agonists. The mechanism of this interaction is unknown. Pentazocine: (Major) Avoid the concomitant use of pentazocine and opiate agonists, such as oxymorphone. Pentazocine is a mixed opiate agonist/antagonist that may block the effects of opiate agonists and reduce analgesic effects. Pentazocine may cause withdrawal symptoms in patients receiving chronic opiate agonists. Concurrent use of pentazocine with other opiate agonists can cause additive CNS, respiratory, and hypotensive effects. The additive or antagonistic effects are dependent upon the dose of the opiate agonist used; antagonistic effects are more common at low to moderate doses of the opiate agonist. Pentazocine; Naloxone: (Major) Avoid the concomitant use of pentazocine and opiate agonists, such as oxymorphone. Pentazocine is a mixed opiate agonist/antagonist that may block the effects of opiate agonists and reduce analgesic effects. Pentazocine may cause withdrawal symptoms in patients receiving chronic opiate agonists. Concurrent use of pentazocine with other opiate agonists can cause additive CNS, respiratory, and hypotensive effects. The additive or antagonistic effects are dependent upon the dose of the opiate agonist used; antagonistic effects are more common at low to moderate doses of the opiate agonist. (Major) The opiate antagonists naloxone and naltrexone are pharmacologic opposites of oxymorphone. These drugs can block the actions of oxymorphone and if administered to patients who are have received chronic oxymorphone therapy, can produce acute withdrawal and/or allow pain to recur. An opiate antagonist should not be administered in the absence of clinically significant respiratory or circulatory depression secondary to oxymorphone overdose. Perampanel: (Moderate) Co-administration of perampanel with CNS depressants, including ethanol, may increase CNS depression. The combination of perampanel (particularly at high doses) with ethanol has led to decreased mental alertness and ability to perform complex tasks (such as driving), as well as increased levels of anger, confusion, and depression; similar reactions should be expected with concomitant use of other CNS depressants, such as opiate agonists. Perphenazine: (Moderate) Concomitant use of oxymorphone with other CNS depressants may produce additive CNS depressant effects. Hypotension, profound sedation, coma, respiratory depression, or death may occur. Severe hypotension may occur if oxymorphone is administered to a patient taking a CNS depressant that inhibits blood pressure maintenance such as phenothiazines. Prior to concurrent use of oxymorphone in patients taking a CNS depressant, assess the level of tolerance to CNS depression that has developed, the duration of use, and the patient's overall response to treatment. Consider the patient's use of alcohol or illicit drugs. If a CNS depressant is used concurrently with oxymorphone, a reduced dosage of oxymorphone (1/3 to 1/2 of the usual dose) and/or the CNS depressant is recommended. If the extended-release oxymorphone tablets are used concurrently with a CNS depressant, it is recommended to use an initial dosage of 5 mg PO every 12 hours. Monitor for sedation or respiratory depression. Perphenazine; Amitriptyline: (Moderate) Concomitant use of oxymorphone with other CNS depressants may produce additive CNS depressant effects. Hypotension, profound sedation, coma, respiratory depression, or death may occur. Severe hypotension may occur if oxymorphone is administered to a patient taking a CNS depressant that inhibits blood pressure maintenance such as phenothiazines. Prior to concurrent use of oxymorphone in patients taking a CNS depressant, assess the level of tolerance to CNS depression that has developed, the duration of use, and the patient's overall response to treatment. Consider the patient's use of alcohol or illicit drugs. If a CNS depressant is used concurrently with oxymorphone, a reduced dosage of oxymorphone (1/3 to 1/2 of the usual dose) and/or the CNS depressant is recommended. If the extended-release oxymorphone tablets are used concurrently with a CNS depressant, it is recommended to use an initial dosage of 5 mg PO every 12 hours. Monitor for sedation or respiratory depression. (Moderate) Concomitant use of oxymorphone with other CNS depressants, such as tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs), may produce additive CNS depressant effects. Hypotension, profound sedation, respiratory depression, or coma may occur. Orthostasis may occur in ambulatory patients. Both oxymorphone and TCAs may produce constipation. Prior to concurrent use of oxymorphone in patients taking a TCA, assess the level of tolerance to CNS depression that has developed, the duration of use, and the patient's overall response to treatment. Consider the patient's use of alcohol or illicit drugs. If a TCA is used concurrently with oxymorphone, a reduced initial dosage of oxymorphone (one-third to one-half of the usual dose) and/or the CNS depressant is recommended. If the extended-release oxymorphone tablets are used concurrently with a CNS depressant, it is recommended to use an initial dosage of 5 mg PO every 12 hours. Monitor for sedation, respiratory depression, and for reduced GI motility. Phenelzine: (Major) Some manufacturers of oxymorphone recommend against use within 14 days of treatment with a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) because severe and unpredictable potentiation by MAO inhibitors has been reported with opiates. During concurrent use of other CNS depressants, additive respiratory or CNS depressant effects, hypotension, profound sedation, coma, or death may occur. If concurrent use is necessary, assess the level of tolerance to CNS depression that has developed, the duration of use, the patient's overall response to treatment, and the patient's use of alcohol or illicit drugs. Initiate oxymorphone at one-third to one-half the usual dosage in patients concurrently receiving another CNS depressant and slowly titrate the dose based on efficacy and tolerability. Consider a lower dose of the CNS depressant. Advise patients against driving or performing other activities requiring mental alertness until they know how the combination affects them. Phenothiazines: (Moderate) Concomitant use of oxymorphone with other CNS depressants may produce additive CNS depressant effects. Hypotension, profound sedation, coma, respiratory depression, or death may occur. Severe hypotension may occur if oxymorphone is administered to a patient taking a CNS depressant that inhibits blood pressure maintenance such as phenothiazines. Prior to concurrent use of oxymorphone in patients taking a CNS depressant, assess the level of tolerance to CNS depression that has developed, the duration of use, and the patient's overall response to treatment. Consider the patient's use of alcohol or illicit drugs. If a CNS depressant is used concurrently with oxymorphone, a reduced dosage of oxymorphone (1/3 to 1/2 of the usual dose) and/or the CNS depressant is recommended. If the extended-release oxymorphone tablets are used concurrently with a CNS depressant, it is recommended to use an initial dosage of 5 mg PO every 12 hours. Monitor for sedation or respiratory depression. Phenytoin: (Moderate) Additive CNS depression could be seen with the combined use of the hydantoin and opiate agonists. Methadone is a primary substrate for the CYP3A4 isoenzyme. Serum concentrations of methadone may decrease due to CYP3A4 induction by phenytoin; withdrawal symptoms may occur. Pimozide: (Moderate) Concomitant use of oxymorphone with other CNS depressants may produce additive CNS depressant effects. Hypotension, profound sedation, coma, respiratory depression, or death may occur; examples of other CNS depressants include pimozide. Prior to concurrent use of oxymorphone in patients taking a CNS depressant, assess the level of tolerance to CNS depression that has developed, the duration of use, and the patient's overall response to treatment. Consider the patient's use of alcohol or illicit drugs. If a CNS depressant is used concurrently with oxymorphone, a reduced dosage of oxymorphone (1/3 to 1/2 of the usual dose) and/or the CNS depressant is recommended. If the extended-release oxymorphone tablets are used concurrently with a CNS depressant, it is recommended to use an initial dosage of 5 mg PO every 12 hours. Monitor for sedation or respiratory depression. Pramipexole: (Moderate) Concomitant use of oxymorphone with other CNS depressants may produce additive CNS depressant effects. Hypotension, profound sedation, coma, respiratory depression, or death may occur; examples of other CNS depressants include pramipexole. Prior to concurrent use of oxymorphone in patients taking a CNS depressant, assess the level of tolerance to CNS depression that has developed, the duration of use, and the patient's overall response to treatment. Consider the patient's use of alcohol or illicit drugs. If a CNS depressant is used concurrently with oxymorphone, a reduced dosage of oxymorphone (1/3 to 1/2 of the usual dose) and/or the CNS depressant is recommended. If the extended-release oxymorphone tablets are used concurrently with a CNS depressant, it is recommended to use an initial dosage of 5 mg PO every 12 hours. Monitor for sedation or respiratory depression. Pramlintide: (Major) Pramlintide slows gastric emptying and the rate of nutrient delivery to the small intestine. Medications with the potential to slow GI motility, such as opiate agonists, should be used with caution, if at all, with pramlintide until more data are available from the manufacturer. Monitor blood glucose. Prasugrel: (Moderate) Consider the use of a parenteral anti-platelet agent for patients with acute coronary syndrome who require concomitant opioid agonists. Coadministration of opioid agonists with prasugrel delays and reduces the absorption of prasugrel's active metabolite due to slowed gastric emptying. Pregabalin: (Moderate) Concomitant use of opiate agonists with other central nervous system (CNS) depressants can potentiate the effects of the opiate and may lead to additive CNS or respiratory depression, profound sedation, or coma. Examples of drugs associated with CNS depression include pregabalin. Prior to concurrent use of an opiate in patients taking a CNS depressant, assess the level of tolerance to CNS depression that has developed, the duration of use, and the patient's overall response to treatment. Consider the patient's use of alcohol or illicit drugs. If these agents are used together, a reduced dosage of the opiate and/or the CNS depressant is recommended. Carefully monitor the patient for hypotension, CNS depression, and respiratory depression. Carbon dioxide retention from opioid-induced respiratory depression can exacerbate the sedating effects of opioids. Prilocaine: (Moderate) The use of these drugs together must be approached with caution. Although commonly used together for additive analgesic effects, the patient must be monitored for respiratory depression, hypotension, and excessive sedation due to additive effects on the CNS and blood pressure. In rare instances, serious morbidity and mortality has occurred. Limit the use of opiate pain medications with local anesthetics to only patients for whom alternative treatment options are inadequate. If concurrent use is necessary, use the lowest effective doses and minimum treatment durations needed to achieve the desired clinical effect. The use of the local anesthetic may allow for the use a lower initial dose of the opiate and then the doses can be titrated to proper clinical response. Educate patients about the risks and symptoms of respiratory depression and sedation. Prilocaine; Epinephrine: (Moderate) The use of these drugs together must be approached with caution. Although commonly used together for additive analgesic effects, the patient must be monitored for respiratory depression, hypotension, and excessive sedation due to additive effects on the CNS and blood pressure. In rare instances, serious morbidity and mortality has occurred. Limit the use of opiate pain medications with local anesthetics to only patients for whom alternative treatment options are inadequate. If concurrent use is necessary, use the lowest effective doses and minimum treatment durations needed to achieve the desired clinical effect. The use of the local anesthetic may allow for the use a lower initial dose of the opiate and then the doses can be titrated to proper clinical response. Educate patients about the risks and symptoms of respiratory depression and sedation. Procaine: (Minor) Due to the CNS depression potential of all local anesthetics, they should be used with caution with other agents that can cause respiratory depression, such as opiate agonists. Procarbazine: (Moderate) Opiate agonists may cause additive sedation or other CNS effects when given in combination with procarbazine. Prochlorperazine: (Moderate) Concomitant use of oxymorphone with other CNS depressants may produce additive CNS depressant effects. Hypotension, profound sedation, coma, respiratory depression, or death may occur. Severe hypotension may occur if oxymorphone is administered to a patient taking a CNS depressant that inhibits blood pressure maintenance such as phenothiazines. Prior to concurrent use of oxymorphone in patients taking a CNS depressant, assess the level of tolerance to CNS depression that has developed, the duration of use, and the patient's overall response to treatment. Consider the patient's use of alcohol or illicit drugs. If a CNS depressant is used concurrently with oxymorphone, a reduced dosage of oxymorphone (1/3 to 1/2 of the usual dose) and/or the CNS depressant is recommended. If the extended-release oxymorphone tablets are used concurrently with a CNS depressant, it is recommended to use an initial dosage of 5 mg PO every 12 hours. Monitor for sedation or respiratory depression. Propofol: (Major) It has been reported that the incidence of bradycardia was increased when oxymorphone was combined with propofol for induction of anesthesia. Concomitant use of oxymorphone with other CNS depressants may produce additive CNS depressant effects. In some cases, hypotension, profound sedation, coma, respiratory depression, or death may occur. Severe hypotension may occur if a CNS depressant that inhibits blood pressure maintenance is used. Prior to concurrent use of oxymorphone in patients taking a CNS depressant, assess the level of tolerance to CNS depression that has developed, the duration of use, and the patient's overall response to treatment. Consider the patient's use of alcohol or illicit drugs. If a CNS depressant is used concurrently with oxymorphone, a reduced dosage of oxymorphone (1/3 to 1/2 of the usual dose) and/or the CNS depressant is recommended. If the extended-release oxymorphone tablets are used concurrently with a CNS depressant, it is recommended to use an initial dosage of 5 mg PO every 12 hours. Monitor for sedation or respiratory depression. Propoxyphene: (Major) Propoxyphene is a weak mu-opiate receptor agonist. As other opiate agonists bind to mu-opiate receptors, concurrent use of an opiate agonist with propoxyphene is not desirable. Also, propoxyphene will only partially suppress the withdrawal syndrome in patients physically dependent on narcotics. The choice of one mu-opiate receptor agonist needs to be made to avoid duplicate therapy and possible adverse effects. Concomitant use of oxymorphone with propoxyphene can lead to additive respiratory depression, hypotension, profound sedation, or coma. Propoxyphene in combination with other CNS depressants is a major cause of drug-related death. Fatalities within the first hour of overdosage are not uncommon. Extreme caution is needed during concomitant use of any CNS-depressant drug and propoxyphene. Prior to concurrent use of oxymorphone in patients taking a propoxyphene, assess the level of tolerance to CNS depression that has developed, the duration of use, and the patient's overall response to treatment. Consider the patient's use of alcohol or illicit drugs. Oxymorphone should be used in reduced dosages if used concurrently with a CNS depressant; also consider a using a lower dose of the CNS depressant. Monitor patients for sedation and respiratory depression. Protriptyline: (Moderate) Concomitant use of oxymorphone with other CNS depressants, such as tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs), may produce additive CNS depressant effects. Hypotension, profound sedation, respiratory depression, or coma may occur. Orthostasis may occur in ambulatory patients. Both oxymorphone and TCAs may produce constipation. Prior to concurrent use of oxymorphone in patients taking a TCA, assess the level of tolerance to CNS depression that has developed, the duration of use, and the patient's overall response to treatment. Consider the patient's use of alcohol or illicit drugs. If a TCA is used concurrently with oxymorphone, a reduced initial dosage of oxymorphone (one-third to one-half of the usual dose) and/or the CNS depressant is recommended. If the extended-release oxymorphone tablets are used concurrently with a CNS depressant, it is recommended to use an initial dosage of 5 mg PO every 12 hours. Monitor for sedation, respiratory depression, and for reduced GI motility. Quazepam: (Major) Concomitant use of opiate agonists with benzodiazepines may cause respiratory depression, hypotension, profound sedation, and death. Limit the use of opiate pain medications with benzodiazepines to only patients for whom alternative treatment options are inadequate. If concurrent use is necessary, use the lowest effective doses and minimum treatment durations needed to achieve the desired clinical effect. If oxymorphone is initiated in a patient taking a benzodiazepine, use an initial dose of oxymorphone at 1/3 to 1/2 the usual dosage and titrate to clinical response. If the extended-release oxymorphone tablets are used concurrently with a CNS depressant, use an initial dosage of 5 mg PO every 12 hours. If a benzodiazepine is prescribed for an indication other than epilepsy in a patient taking an opiate agonist, use a lower initial dose of the benzodiazepine and titrate to clinical response. Educate patients about the risks and symptoms of respiratory depression and sedation. Quetiapine: (Moderate) Concomitant use of oxymorphone with other CNS depressants may produce additive CNS depressant effects. Hypotension, profound sedation, coma, respiratory depression, or death may occur; examples of other CNS depressants include quetiapine. Prior to concurrent use of oxymorphone in patients taking a CNS depressant, assess the level of tolerance to CNS depression that has developed, the duration of use, and the patient's overall response to treatment. Consider the patient's use of alcohol or illicit drugs. If a CNS depressant is used concurrently with oxymorphone, a reduced dosage of oxymorphone (1/3 to 1/2 of the usual dose) and/or the CNS depressant is recommended. If the extended-release oxymorphone tablets are used concurrently with a CNS depressant, it is recommended to use an initial dosage of 5 mg PO every 12 hours. Monitor for sedation or respiratory depression. Rapacuronium: (Moderate) Additive CNS depression may occur if opiate agonists are used concomitantly with other CNS depressants, including neuromuscular blockers. Remifentanil: (Major) Concomitant use of oxymorphone with other CNS depressants may produce additive CNS depressant effects. Respiratory depression, hypotension, profound sedation, or coma may result from combination therapy. Prior to concurrent use of oxymorphone in patients taking a CNS depressant, assess the level of tolerance to CNS depression that has developed, the duration of use, and the patient's overall response to treatment. Consider the patient's use of alcohol or illicit drugs. Oxymorphone should be used in reduced dosages if used concurrently with a CNS depressant; initiate oxymorphone at one-third to one-half the usual dosage in patients that are concurrently receiving another CNS depressant. Also consider a using a lower dose of the CNS depressant. Slowly titrate the dose as necessary for adequate pain relief and monitor for sedation or respiratory depression. Risperidone: (Moderate) Concomitant use of oxymorphone with other CNS depressants may produce additive CNS depressant effects. Hypotension, profound sedation, coma, respiratory depression, or death may occur; examples of other CNS depressants include risperidone. Prior to concurrent use of oxymorphone in patients taking a CNS depressant, assess the level of tolerance to CNS depression that has developed, the duration of use, and the patient's overall response to treatment. Consider the patient's use of alcohol or illicit drugs. If a CNS depressant is used concurrently with oxymorphone, a reduced dosage of oxymorphone (1/3 to 1/2 of the usual dose) and/or the CNS depressant is recommended. If the extended-release oxymorphone tablets are used concurrently with a CNS depressant, it is recommended to use an initial dosage of 5 mg PO every 12 hours. Monitor for sedation or respiratory depression. Ritonavir: (Moderate) Ritonavir is an inhibitor of the cytochrome P450 3A4 isoenzyme and may decrease the metabolism of oxymorphone if the two drugs are coadministered. Rocuronium: (Moderate) Additive CNS depression may occur if opiate agonists are used concomitantly with other CNS depressants, including neuromuscular blockers. Ropinirole: (Moderate) Concomitant use of opiate agonists with other central nervous system (CNS) depressants such as ropinirole can potentiate the effects of the opiate and may lead to additive CNS or respiratory depression, profound sedation, or coma. Prior to concurrent use of an opiate in patients taking a CNS depressant, assess the level of tolerance to CNS depression that has developed, the duration of use, and the patient's overall response to treatment. Consider the patient's use of alcohol or illicit drugs. If these agents are used together, a reduced dosage of the opiate and/or the CNS depressant is recommended. Carefully monitor the patient for hypotension, CNS depression, and respiratory depression. Carbon dioxide retention from opioid-induced respiratory depression can exacerbate the sedating effects of opioids. Ropivacaine: (Moderate) The use of these drugs together must be approached with caution. Although commonly used together for additive analgesic effects, the patient must be monitored for respiratory depression, hypotension, and excessive sedation due to additive effects on the CNS and blood pressure. In rare instances, serious morbidity and mortality has occurred. Limit the use of opiate pain medications with local anesthetics to only patients for whom alternative treatment options are inadequate. If concurrent use is necessary, use the lowest effective doses and minimum treatment durations needed to achieve the desired clinical effect. The use of the local anesthetic may allow for the use a lower initial dose of the opiate and then the doses can be titrated to proper clinical response. Educate patients about the risks and symptoms of respiratory depression and sedation. Sedating H1-blockers: (Moderate) Concomitant use of oxymorphone with other CNS depressants may produce additive CNS depressant effects. Hypotension, profound sedation, coma, respiratory depression, or death may occur; examples of other CNS depressants include sedating H1-blockers. Prior to concurrent use of oxymorphone in patients taking a CNS depressant, assess the level of tolerance to CNS depression that has developed, the duration of use, and the patient's overall response to treatment. Consider the patient's use of alcohol or illicit drugs. If a CNS depressant is used concurrently with oxymorphone, a reduced dosage of oxymorphone (1/3 to 1/2 of the usual dose) and/or the CNS depressant is recommended. If the extended-release oxymorphone tablets are used concurrently with a CNS depressant, it is recommended to use an initial dosage of 5 mg PO every 12 hours. Monitor for sedation or respiratory depression. Selegiline: (Major) Some manufacturers of oxymorphone recommend against use within 14 days of treatment with a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) because severe and unpredictable potentiation by MAO inhibitors has been reported with opiates. During concurrent use of other CNS depressants, additive respiratory or CNS depressant effects, hypotension, profound sedation, coma, or death may occur. If concurrent use is necessary, assess the level of tolerance to CNS depression that has developed, the duration of use, the patient's overall response to treatment, and the patient's use of alcohol or illicit drugs. Initiate oxymorphone at one-third to one-half the usual dosage in patients concurrently receiving another CNS depressant and slowly titrate the dose based on efficacy and tolerability. Consider a lower dose of the CNS depressant. Advise patients against driving or performing other activities requiring mental alertness until they know how the combination affects them. Sevoflurane: (Moderate) The concomitant use of oxymorphone with other CNS depressants may produce additive CNS depressant effects. Respiratory depression, hypotension, profound sedation, or coma may result from combination therapy. Severe hypotension may occur if oxymorphone is administered to a patient taking a CNS depressant that inhibits blood pressure maintenance such as general anesthetics. Prior to concurrent use of oxymorphone in patients taking a CNS depressant, assess the level of tolerance to CNS depression that has developed, the duration of use, and the patient's overall response to treatment. Consider the patient's use of alcohol or illicit drugs. Oxymorphone should be used in reduced dosages if used concurrently with a CNS depressant; initiate oxymorphone at one-third to one-half the usual dosage in patients that are concurrently receiving another CNS depressant. Also consider a using a lower dose of the CNS depressant. Slowly titrate the dose as necessary for adequate pain relief and monitor for sedation or respiratory depression. Sildenafil: (Moderate) Prolonged erections have been reported in two patients taking sildenafil with dihydrocodeine. Although more data are needed, use caution when prescribing opiate agonists and sildenafil concomitantly. Skeletal Muscle Relaxants: (Major) Concomitant use of opiate agonists with skeletal muscle relaxants may cause respiratory depression, hypotension, profound sedation, and death. Limit the use of opiate pain medications with skeletal muscle relaxants to only patients for whom alternative treatment options are inadequate. If concurrent use is necessary, use the lowest effective doses and minimum treatment durations needed to achieve the desired clinical effect. If oxymorphone is initiated in a patient taking a skeletal muscle relaxant, use an initial dose of oxymorphone at one-third to one-half the usual dosage and titrate to clinical response. If the extended-release oxymorphone tablets are used concurrently with a skeletal muscle relaxant, use an initial dosage of 5 mg PO every 12 hours. If a skeletal muscle relaxant is prescribed for a patient taking an opiate agonist, use a lower initial dose of the skeletal muscle relaxant and titrate to clinical response. Educate patients about the risks and symptoms of respiratory depression and sedation. Sodium Oxybate: (Major) Additive CNS depressant effects may be possible when sodium oxybate is used concurrently with opiate agonists. Solifenacin: (Moderate) Monitor patients for signs of urinary retention or reduced gastric motility when oxymorphone is used concomitantly with an anticholinergic drug, such as solifenacin. The concomitant use of oxymorphone and anticholinergic drugs may increase risk of urinary retention and/or severe constipation, which may lead to paralytic ileus. Opiates increase the tone and decrease the propulsive contractions of the smooth muscle of the gastrointestinal tract. Prolongation of the gastrointestinal transit time may be the mechanism of the constipating effect. Succinylcholine: (Moderate) Additive CNS depression may occur if opiate agonists are used concomitantly with other CNS depressants, including neuromuscular blockers. Sufentanil: (Major) Concomitant use of oxymorphone with other CNS depressants may produce additive CNS depressant effects. Respiratory depression, hypotension, profound sedation, or coma may result from combination therapy. Prior to concurrent use of oxymorphone in patients taking a CNS depressant, assess the level of tolerance to CNS depression that has developed, the duration of use, and the patient's overall response to treatment. Consider the patient's use of alcohol or illicit drugs. Oxymorphone should be used in reduced dosages if used concurrently with a CNS depressant; initiate oxymorphone at one-third to one-half the usual dosage in patients that are concurrently receiving another CNS depressant. Also consider a using a lower dose of the CNS depressant. Slowly titrate the dose as necessary for adequate pain relief and monitor for sedation or respiratory depression. Suvorexant: (Moderate) CNS depressant drugs may have cumulative effects when administered concurrently and they should be used cautiously with suvorexant. A reduction in dose of the CNS depressant may be needed in some cases. Tapentadol: (Major) Additive CNS depressive effects are expected if tapentadol is used in conjunction with other CNS depressants, including other opiate agonists. Severe hypotension, profound sedation, coma, or respiratory depression may occur. Prior to concurrent use of tapentadol in patients taking a CNS depressant, assess the level of tolerance to CNS depression that has developed, the duration of use, and the patient's overall response to treatment. Consider the patient's use of alcohol or illicit drugs. If an opiate agonist is used concurrently with tapentadol, a reduced dosage of tapentadol and/or the opiate agonist is recommended. If the extended-release tapentadol tablets are used concurrently with a CNS depressant, it is recommended to use an initial tapentadol dose of 50 mg PO every 12 hours. Monitor patients for sedation and respiratory depression. Temazepam: (Major) Concomitant use of opiate agonists with benzodiazepines may cause respiratory depression, hypotension, profound sedation, and death. Limit the use of opiate pain medications with benzodiazepines to only patients for whom alternative treatment options are inadequate. If concurrent use is necessary, use the lowest effective doses and minimum treatment durations needed to achieve the desired clinical effect. If oxymorphone is initiated in a patient taking a benzodiazepine, use an initial dose of oxymorphone at 1/3 to 1/2 the usual dosage and titrate to clinical response. If the extended-release oxymorphone tablets are used concurrently with a CNS depressant, use an initial dosage of 5 mg PO every 12 hours. If a benzodiazepine is prescribed for an indication other than epilepsy in a patient taking an opiate agonist, use a lower initial dose of the benzodiazepine and titrate to clinical response. Educate patients about the risks and symptoms of respiratory depression and sedation. Tetrabenazine: (Moderate) Additive effects are possible when tetrabenazine is combined with other drugs that cause CNS depression. Concurrent use of tetrabenazine and drugs that can cause CNS depression, such as opiate agonists, can increase both the frequency and the intensity of adverse effects such as drowsiness, sedation, dizziness, and orthostatic hypotension. Tetracaine: (Major) Due to the central nervous system depression potential of local anesthetics, they should be used with caution with other agents that can cause respiratory depression, such as opiate agonists. Excitation or depression of the CNS may be the first manifestation of CNS toxicity. Restlessness, anxiety, tinnitus, dizziness, blurred vision, tremors, depression, or drowsiness may be early warning signs of CNS toxicity. After each local anesthetic injection, careful and constant monitoring of ventilation adequacy, cardiovascular vital signs, and the patient's state of consciousness is advised. Thalidomide: (Major) Avoid the concomitant use of thalidomide with opiate agonists; antihistamines; antipsychotics; anxiolytics, sedatives, and hypnotics; and other central nervous system depressants due to the potential for additive sedative effects. Thiazide diuretics: (Moderate) Opiate agonists may potentiate orthostatic hypotension when used concurrently with thiazide diuretics. Thiethylperazine: (Moderate) Concomitant use of oxymorphone with other CNS depressants may produce additive CNS depressant effects. Hypotension, profound sedation, coma, respiratory depression, or death may occur. Severe hypotension may occur if oxymorphone is administered to a patient taking a CNS depressant that inhibits blood pressure maintenance such as phenothiazines. Prior to concurrent use of oxymorphone in patients taking a CNS depressant, assess the level of tolerance to CNS depression that has developed, the duration of use, and the patient's overall response to treatment. Consider the patient's use of alcohol or illicit drugs. If a CNS depressant is used concurrently with oxymorphone, a reduced dosage of oxymorphone (1/3 to 1/2 of the usual dose) and/or the CNS depressant is recommended. If the extended-release oxymorphone tablets are used concurrently with a CNS depressant, it is recommended to use an initial dosage of 5 mg PO every 12 hours. Monitor for sedation or respiratory depression. Thioridazine: (Moderate) Concomitant use of oxymorphone with other CNS depressants may produce additive CNS depressant effects. Hypotension, profound sedation, coma, respiratory depression, or death may occur. Severe hypotension may occur if oxymorphone is administered to a patient taking a CNS depressant that inhibits blood pressure maintenance such as phenothiazines. Prior to concurrent use of oxymorphone in patients taking a CNS depressant, assess the level of tolerance to CNS depression that has developed, the duration of use, and the patient's overall response to treatment. Consider the patient's use of alcohol or illicit drugs. If a CNS depressant is used concurrently with oxymorphone, a reduced dosage of oxymorphone (1/3 to 1/2 of the usual dose) and/or the CNS depressant is recommended. If the extended-release oxymorphone tablets are used concurrently with a CNS depressant, it is recommended to use an initial dosage of 5 mg PO every 12 hours. Monitor for sedation or respiratory depression. Thiothixene: (Moderate) Thiothixene can potentiate the CNS-depressant action of other drugs such as opiate agonists. Caution should be exercised during simultaneous use of these agents due to potential excessive CNS effects or additive hypotension. Ticagrelor: (Moderate) Consider the use of a parenteral anti-platelet agent for patients with acute coronary syndrome who require concomitant opioid agonists. Coadministration of opioid agonists with ticagrelor delays and reduces the absorption of ticagrelor and its active metabolite due to slowed gastric emptying. Tizanidine: (Major) Concomitant use of opiate agonists with skeletal muscle relaxants may cause respiratory depression, hypotension, profound sedation, and death. Limit the use of opiate pain medications with skeletal muscle relaxants to only patients for whom alternative treatment options are inadequate. If concurrent use is necessary, use the lowest effective doses and minimum treatment durations needed to achieve the desired clinical effect. If oxymorphone is initiated in a patient taking a skeletal muscle relaxant, use an initial dose of oxymorphone at 1/3 to 1/2 the usual dosage and titrate to clinical response. If the extended-release oxymorphone tablets are used concurrently with a skeletal muscle relaxant, use an initial dosage of 5 mg PO every 12 hours. If a skeletal muscle relaxant is prescribed for a patient taking an opiate agonist, use a lower initial dose of the skeletal muscle relaxant and titrate to clinical response. Educate patients about the risks and symptoms of respiratory depression and sedation. Tolcapone: (Moderate) Concomitant use of opiate agonists with other central nervous system (CNS) depressants such as COMT inhibitors can potentiate the effects of the opiate and may lead to additive CNS or respiratory depression, profound sedation, or coma. Prior to concurrent use of an opiate in patients taking a CNS depressant, assess the level of tolerance to CNS depression that has developed, the duration of use, and the patient's overall response to treatment. Consider the patient's use of alcohol or illicit drugs. If these agents are used together, a reduced dosage of the opiate and/or the CNS depressant is recommended. Carefully monitor the patient for hypotension, CNS depression, and respiratory depression. Carbon dioxide retention from opioid-induced respiratory depression can exacerbate the sedating effects of opioids. Tolterodine: (Moderate) Monitor patients for signs of urinary retention or reduced gastric motility when oxymorphone is used concomitantly with an anticholinergic drug, such as tolterodine. The concomitant use of oxymorphone and anticholinergic drugs may increase risk of urinary retention and/or severe constipation, which may lead to paralytic ileus. Opiates increase the tone and decrease the propulsive contractions of the smooth muscle of the gastrointestinal tract. Prolongation of the gastrointestinal transit time may be the mechanism of the constipating effect. Tramadol: (Major) Tramadol can cause additive CNS depression and respiratory depression when used with opiate agonists such as oxymorphone. Concomitant use of tramadol and opiate agonists may also increase the risk of seizures; avoid concurrent use whenever possible. Hypotension, profound sedation, coma, respiratory depression, or death may occur. Prior to concurrent use of oxymorphone in patients taking a CNS depressant, assess the level of tolerance to CNS depression that has developed, the duration of use, and the patient's overall response to treatment. Consider the patient's use of alcohol or illicit drugs. If a CNS depressant is used concurrently with oxymorphone, a reduced dosage of oxymorphone (1/3 to 1/2 of the usual dose) and/or the CNS depressant is recommended. If the extended-release oxymorphone tablets are used concurrently with a CNS depressant, it is recommended to use an initial dosage of 5 mg PO every 12 hours. Monitor for sedation or respiratory depression. Tranylcypromine: (Major) Some manufacturers of oxymorphone recommend against use within 14 days of treatment with a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) because severe and unpredictable potentiation by MAO inhibitors has been reported with opiates. During concurrent use of other CNS depressants, additive respiratory or CNS depressant effects, hypotension, profound sedation, coma, or death may occur. If concurrent use is necessary, assess the level of tolerance to CNS depression that has developed, the duration of use, the patient's overall response to treatment, and the patient's use of alcohol or illicit drugs. Initiate oxymorphone at one-third to one-half the usual dosage in patients concurrently receiving another CNS depressant and slowly titrate the dose based on efficacy and tolerability. Consider a lower dose of the CNS depressant. Advise patients against driving or performing other activities requiring mental alertness until they know how the combination affects them. Trazodone: (Moderate) Concomitant use of oxymorphone with other CNS depressants may produce additive CNS depressant effects. Hypotension, profound sedation, coma, respiratory depression, or death may occur; examples of other CNS depressants include trazodone. Prior to concurrent use of oxymorphone in patients taking a CNS depressant, assess the level of tolerance to CNS depression that has developed, the duration of use, and the patient's overall response to treatment. Consider the patient's use of alcohol or illicit drugs. If a CNS depressant is used concurrently with oxymorphone, a reduced dosage of oxymorphone (1/3 to 1/2 of the usual dose) and/or the CNS depressant is recommended. If the extended-release oxymorphone tablets are used concurrently with a CNS depressant, it is recommended to use an initial dosage of 5 mg PO every 12 hours. Monitor for sedation or respiratory depression. Triazolam: (Major) Concomitant use of opiate agonists with benzodiazepines may cause respiratory depression, hypotension, profound sedation, and death. Limit the use of opiate pain medications with benzodiazepines to only patients for whom alternative treatment options are inadequate. If concurrent use is necessary, use the lowest effective doses and minimum treatment durations needed to achieve the desired clinical effect. If oxymorphone is initiated in a patient taking a benzodiazepine, use an initial dose of oxymorphone at 1/3 to 1/2 the usual dosage and titrate to clinical response. If the extended-release oxymorphone tablets are used concurrently with a CNS depressant, use an initial dosage of 5 mg PO every 12 hours. If a benzodiazepine is prescribed for an indication other than epilepsy in a patient taking an opiate agonist, use a lower initial dose of the benzodiazepine and titrate to clinical response. Educate patients about the risks and symptoms of respiratory depression and sedation. Tricyclic antidepressants: (Moderate) Concomitant use of oxymorphone with other CNS depressants, such as tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs), may produce additive CNS depressant effects. Hypotension, profound sedation, respiratory depression, or coma may occur. Orthostasis may occur in ambulatory patients. Both oxymorphone and TCAs may produce constipation. Prior to concurrent use of oxymorphone in patients taking a TCA, assess the level of tolerance to CNS depression that has developed, the duration of use, and the patient's overall response to treatment. Consider the patient's use of alcohol or illicit drugs. If a TCA is used concurrently with oxymorphone, a reduced initial dosage of oxymorphone (one-third to one-half of the usual dose) and/or the CNS depressant is recommended. If the extended-release oxymorphone tablets are used concurrently with a CNS depressant, it is recommended to use an initial dosage of 5 mg PO every 12 hours. Monitor for sedation, respiratory depression, and for reduced GI motility. Trifluoperazine: (Moderate) Concomitant use of oxymorphone with other CNS depressants may produce additive CNS depressant effects. Hypotension, profound sedation, coma, respiratory depression, or death may occur. Severe hypotension may occur if oxymorphone is administered to a patient taking a CNS depressant that inhibits blood pressure maintenance such as phenothiazines. Prior to concurrent use of oxymorphone in patients taking a CNS depressant, assess the level of tolerance to CNS depression that has developed, the duration of use, and the patient's overall response to treatment. Consider the patient's use of alcohol or illicit drugs. If a CNS depressant is used concurrently with oxymorphone, a reduced dosage of oxymorphone (1/3 to 1/2 of the usual dose) and/or the CNS depressant is recommended. If the extended-release oxymorphone tablets are used concurrently with a CNS depressant, it is recommended to use an initial dosage of 5 mg PO every 12 hours. Monitor for sedation or respiratory depression. Trimethobenzamide: (Moderate) The concurrent use of trimethobenzamide with other medications that cause CNS depression, like opiate agonists, may potentiate the effects of either trimethobenzamide or the opiate agonist. Trimipramine: (Moderate) Concomitant use of oxymorphone with other CNS depressants, such as tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs), may produce additive CNS depressant effects. Hypotension, profound sedation, respiratory depression, or coma may occur. Orthostasis may occur in ambulatory patients. Both oxymorphone and TCAs may produce constipation. Prior to concurrent use of oxymorphone in patients taking a TCA, assess the level of tolerance to CNS depression that has developed, the duration of use, and the patient's overall response to treatment. Consider the patient's use of alcohol or illicit drugs. If a TCA is used concurrently with oxymorphone, a reduced initial dosage of oxymorphone (one-third to one-half of the usual dose) and/or the CNS depressant is recommended. If the extended-release oxymorphone tablets are used concurrently with a CNS depressant, it is recommended to use an initial dosage of 5 mg PO every 12 hours. Monitor for sedation, respiratory depression, and for reduced GI motility. Triprolidine: (Moderate) Concomitant use of oxymorphone with other CNS depressants may produce additive CNS depressant effects. Hypotension, profound sedation, coma, respiratory depression, or death may occur; examples of other CNS depressants include sedating H1-blockers. Prior to concurrent use of oxymorphone in patients taking a CNS depressant, assess the level of tolerance to CNS depression that has developed, the duration of use, and the patient's overall response to treatment. Consider the patient's use of alcohol or illicit drugs. If a CNS depressant is used concurrently with oxymorphone, a reduced dosage of oxymorphone (1/3 to 1/2 of the usual dose) and/or the CNS depressant is recommended. If the extended-release oxymorphone tablets are used concurrently with a CNS depressant, it is recommended to use an initial dosage of 5 mg PO every 12 hours. Monitor for sedation or respiratory depression. Trospium: (Moderate) Monitor patients for signs of urinary retention or reduced gastric motility when trospium, an anticholinergic drug for overactive bladder. is used with opiate agonists. The concomitant use of these drugs together may increase risk of urinary retention and/or severe constipation, which may lead to paralytic ileus. Opiates increase the tone and decrease the propulsive contractions of the smooth muscle of the gastrointestinal tract. Prolongation of the gastrointestinal transit time may be the mechanism of the constipating effect. Both agents may also cause drowsiness or blurred vision, and patients should use care in driving or performing other hazardous tasks until the effects of the drugs are known. Tubocurarine: (Moderate) Additive CNS depression may occur if opiate agonists are used concomitantly with other CNS depressants, including neuromuscular blockers. Valerian, Valeriana officinalis: (Moderate) Any substances that act on the CNS may theoretically interact with valerian, Valeriana officinalis. The valerian derivative, dihydrovaltrate, binds at barbiturate binding sites; valerenic acid has been shown to inhibit enzyme-induced breakdown of GABA in the brain; the non-volatile monoterpenes (valepotriates) have sedative activity. The sedative effect may be additive to other drugs with sedative actions, such as the opiate agonists. Consider the patient's use of alcohol or illicit drugs. If valerian is used concurrently with a CNS depressant, a reduced dosage of the CNS depressant may be required, or, the valerian supplement may be discontinued. Carefully monitor the patient for hypotension, CNS depression, and respiratory depression. Vecuronium: (Moderate) Additive CNS depression may occur if opiate agonists are used concomitantly with other CNS depressants, including neuromuscular blockers. Vigabatrin: (Moderate) Vigabatrin may cause somnolence and fatigue. Drugs that can cause CNS depression, if used concomitantly with vigabatrin, may increase both the frequency and the intensity of adverse effects such as drowsiness, sedation, and dizziness. Caution should be used when vigabatrin is given with opiate agonists. Vilazodone: (Moderate) Due to the CNS effects of vilazodone, caution should be used when vilazodone is given in combination with other centrally acting medications such as opiate agonists. Zaleplon: (Moderate) Concomitant use of oxymorphone with zaleplon may produce additive CNS depressant effects. Hypotension, profound sedation, coma, respiratory depression, or death may occur. Prior to concurrent use, assess the level of tolerance to CNS depression that has developed, the duration of use, and the patient's overall response to treatment. Consider the patient's use of alcohol or illicit drugs. If zaleplon is used concurrently with oxymorphone, a reduced dosage of oxymorphone (1/3 to 1/2 of the usual dose) and/or zaleplon is recommended. If the extended-release oxymorphone tablets are used concurrently with a CNS depressant, it is recommended to use an initial dosage of 5 mg PO every 12 hours. Monitor for sedation or respiratory depression. Ziconotide: (Moderate) Concurrent use of ziconotide and opiate agonists may result in an increased incidence of dizziness and confusion. Ziconotide neither interacts with opiate receptors nor potentiates opiate-induced respiratory depression. However, in animal models, ziconotide did potentiate gastrointestinal motility reduction by opioid agonists. Ziprasidone: (Moderate) Ziprasidone has the potential to impair cognitive and motor skills. Additive CNS depressant effects are possible when ziprasidone is used concurrently with any CNS depressant, including oxymorphone. Zolpidem: (Moderate) Concomitant use of oxymorphone with zolpidem may produce additive CNS depressant effects. Hypotension, profound sedation, coma, respiratory depression, or death may occur. In addition, sleep-related behaviors, such as sleep-driving, are more likely to occur during concurrent use of zolpidem and other CNS depressants than with zolpidem alone. Prior to concurrent use, assess the level of tolerance to CNS depression that has developed, the duration of use, and the patient's overall response to treatment. Consider the patient's use of alcohol or illicit drugs. If zolpidem is used concurrently with oxymorphone, a reduced dosage of oxymorphone (1/3 to 1/2 of the usual dose) and/or zolpidem is recommended. If the extended-release oxymorphone tablets are used concurrently with a CNS depressant, it is recommended to use an initial oxymorphone ER dosage of 5 mg PO every 12 hours. For Intermezzo brand of sublingual zolpidem tablets, reduce the dose to 1.75 mg/night. Monitor for sedation or respiratory depression.

PREGNANCY AND LACTATION

Pregnancy

Oxymorphone is classified as FDA pregnancy category C. No adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women have been conducted. As with other analgesics, the use of oxymorphone in pregnancy or in women of child-bearing potential requires that the possible benefits of the drug be weighed against the possible hazards to the mother and the child. Oral oxymorphone is not recommended for use in women during and immediately prior to labor, as use of shorter acting analgesics or other analgesic techniques are more appropriate. While oxymorphone has been used in the obstetric setting, caution is advised under various circumstances during labor and obstetric delivery. Sinusoidal fetal heart rate patterns may occur with the use of opioid analgesics. If used during the second stage of labor, the duration of labor can be prolonged by temporarily reducing the strength, duration, and frequency of uterine contractions. However, this effect is not consistent and may be offset by an increased rate of cervical dilation. Generally, the effect of opioids on the pregnant uterus appears to depend on the time of administration. Administration of the drugs during the latent phase of the first stage of labor or before cervical dilation of 4—5 cm may hamper the progress of labor. The risk of respiratory and CNS depression is especially important for premature infants who are particularly sensitive. A specific opioid antagonist, such as naloxone, should be available for reversal of opioid-induced respiratory depression in the neonate. Further, the prolonged maternal use of long-acting opioids, such as oxymorphone, during pregnancy may result in neonatal opioid withdrawal syndrome (NOWS). This syndrome can be life-threatening. Severe symptoms may require pharmacologic therapy managed by clinicians familiar with neonatal opioid withdrawal. Monitor the neonate for withdrawal symptoms including irritability, hyperactivity, abnormal sleep pattern, high-pitched crying, tremor, vomiting, diarrhea, and failure to gain weight. Onset, duration, and severity of opioid withdrawal may vary based on the specific opioid used, duration of use, timing and amount of last maternal use, and rate of elimination by the newborn. The effect of oxymorphone, if any, on the later growth, development, and functional maturation of the child is unknown.

MECHANISM OF ACTION

Mechanism of Action: Oxymorphone is a potent µ-opiate receptor agonist. Opiate receptors include µ (mu), kappa (kappa), and delta (delta), which have been reclassified by an International Union of Pharmacology subcommittee as OP1 (delta), OP2 (kappa), and OP3 (µ). These receptors are coupled with G-protein (guanine-nucleotide-binding protein) receptors and function as modulators, both positive and negative, of synaptic transmission via G-proteins that activate effector proteins. Opioid-G-protein systems include adenylyl cyclase-cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) and phospholipase3 C (PLC)-inositol 1,4,5 triphosphate ((Ins(1,4,5)P3)-Ca2). Opiates do not alter the pain threshold of afferent nerve endings to noxious stimuli, nor do they affect the conductance of impulses along peripheral nerves. Analgesia is mediated through changes in the perception of pain at the spinal cord (µ2-, delta-, kappa-receptors) and higher levels in the CNS (µ1- and kappa3-receptors). There is no ceiling effect of analgesia for opiates. The emotional response to pain is also altered. Opioids close N-type voltage-operated calcium channels (kappa-receptor agonist) and open calcium-dependent inwardly-rectifying potassium channels (µ and delta receptor agonist) resulting in hyperpolarization and reduced neuronal excitability. Binding of the opiate stimulates the exchange of guanosine triphosphate (GTP) for guanosine diphosphate (GDP) on the G-protein complex. Binding of GTP leads to a release of the G-protein subunit, which acts on the effector system. In this case of opioid-induced analgesia, the effector system is adenylate cyclase and cAMP located at the inner surface of the plasma membrane. Thus, opioids decrease intracellular cAMP by inhibiting adenylate cyclase that modulates the release of nociceptive neurotransmitters such as substance P, GABA, dopamine, acetylcholine, and norepinephrine. Opioids also modulate the endocrine and immune systems. Opioids inhibit the release of vasopressin, somatostatin, insulin, and glucagon.The stimulatory effects of opioids are the result of 'disinhibition' as the release of inhibitory neurotransmitters, such as GABA and acetylcholine, is blocked. The exact mechanism how opioid agonists cause both inhibitory and stimulatory processes is not well understood. Possible mechanisms including differential susceptibility of the opioid receptor to desensitization or activation of more than one G-protein system or subunit (one excitatory and one inhibitory) by an opioid receptor.Clinically, stimulation of µ-receptors produces analgesia, euphoria, respiratory depression, miosis, decreased gastrointestinal motility, and physical dependence. Kappa-receptor stimulation also produces analgesia, miosis, and respiratory depression, as well as dysphoria and some psychomimetic effects (i.e., disorientation and/or depersonalization). Miosis is produced by an excitatory action on the autonomic segment of the nucleus of the oculomotor nerve. Respiratory depression is caused by direct action of opiate agonists on respiratory centers in the brain stem. The respiratory depression involves a reduction in the responsiveness of the brain stem respiratory centers to both increases in carbon dioxide tension and electrical stimulation. Opiate agonists increase smooth muscle tone in the antral portion of the stomach, the small intestine (especially the duodenum), the large intestine, and the sphincters. Opiate agonists also decrease secretions from the stomach, pancreas, and biliary tract. The combination of effects of opiate agonists on the GI tract results in constipation and delayed digestion. Urinary smooth muscle tone is also increased by opiate agonists. The tone of the bladder detrusor muscle, ureters, and vesical sphincter is increased, which sometimes causes urinary retention.Several other clinical effects occur with opiate agonists including cough suppression, hypotension, and nausea/vomiting. The antitussive effects of opiate agonists are mediated through direct action on receptors in the cough center of the medulla. Cough suppression can be achieved at lower doses than those required to produce analgesia. Hypotension is possibly due to an increase in histamine release and/or depression of the vasomotor center in the medulla. Manifestations of histamine release may include orthostatic hypotension, pruritus, flushing, red eyes, and sweating. Animal studies have shown that oxymorphone has a lower propensity to cause histamine release than other opioids. Induction of nausea and vomiting possibly occurs from direct stimulation of the vestibular system and/or the chemoreceptor trigger zone.

PHARMACOKINETICS

Oxymorphone is administered parenterally, orally, and rectally. Oxymorphone is about 10—12% protein bound. Steady-state concentrations were achieved after 3 days of multiple dose administration. Metabolism of oxymorphone occurs in the liver with excretion principally in the urine. Oxymorphone undergoes reduction or conjugation with glucuronic acid to form both active and inactive metabolites. The major metabolites are oxymorphone-3-glucuronide and 6-OH-oxymorphone. The mean plasma AUC for oxymorphone-3-glucuronide is approximately 90-fold higher than the parent compound. Although the pharmacologic activity of the glucuronide metabolite has not been evaluated, the 6-OH-oxymorphone metabolite does have analgesic bioactivity in animal models. Mean systemic exposure of 6-OH-oxymorphone is approximately 70% of the oxymorphone systemic exposure after single, oral doses but is essentially equivalent to the parent compound at steady-state. Less than 1% of an administered dose is excreted unchanged in the urine. On average, 33—38% of the administered dose is excreted in the urine as oxymorphone-3-glucuronide and 0.25% to 0.62% is excreted as 6-OH-oxymorphone in subjects with normal hepatic and renal function. In healthy subjects, the mean terminal half-life of parenteral oxymorphone was 1.3 +/- 0.7 hours.

Oral Route

Oxymorphone is administered orally as immediate-release tablets or extended-release tablets. The absolute oral bioavailability of oxymorphone is approximately 10%. Food increases the bioavailability of single doses of 20 and 40 mg of extended-release oxymorphone in healthy volunteers. The Cmax was increased by approximately 50% in fed subjects as compared with the Cmax in fasted subjects. Systemic exposure was unchanged in one study and increased by approximately 18% in another study in fed subjects. Examination of the AUC suggests that most of the difference between fed and fasting conditions occurs in the first 4 hours after dose administration. After oral dosing with a single dose of 40 mg extended-release, a peak oxymorphone plasma concentration of 2.8 ng/ml is achieved at 1 hour in fasted subjects and a peak of 4.25 ng/ml is achieved at 2 hours in fed subjects. There is very little difference in the curves beyond the 12 hour time point. Administer oral oxymorphone at least one hour before or two hours after eating. Dose proportionality has been established for the 5 mg, 10 mg, and 20 mg immediate-release and for the 5 mg, 10 mg, 20 mg, and 40 mg extended-release dosage forms for both Cmax and systemic exposure.

Intravenous Route

Oxymorphone is administered parenterally as a subcutaneous, intramuscular, or intravenous injection. Initial effects of oxymorphone are usually perceived within 5—10 minutes of parenteral administration. The duration of action is approximately 3—6 hours after parenteral administration.

Intramuscular Route

Oxymorphone is administered parenterally as a subcutaneous, intramuscular, or intravenous injection. Initial effects of oxymorphone are usually perceived within 5—10 minutes of parenteral administration. The duration of action is approximately 3—6 hours after parenteral administration.

Subcutaneous Route

Oxymorphone is administered parenterally as a subcutaneous, intramuscular, or intravenous injection. Initial effects of oxymorphone are usually perceived within 5—10 minutes of parenteral administration. The duration of action is approximately 3—6 hours after parenteral administration.

Other Route(s)

Rectal RouteNo pharmacokinetic data are available specific to the rectal administration of oxymorphone.

US-based MDs, DOs, NPs and PAs in full-time patient practice can register for free on PDR.net. PDR.net is to be used only as a reference aid. It is not intended to be a substitute for the exercise of professional judgment. You should confirm the information on the PDR.net site through independent sources and seek other professional guidance in all treatment and diagnosis decisions.